Logistics and FAQs

Q: When is TWTP and General Orientation?

A: TWTP 2009 is Sept 1st – Sept 4th. Students participating in General Orientation arrive on Sept 5th. Classes begin on Sept 9th.

Q: Does TWTP cost anything? Do I have to pay a registration fee or pay for my housing and meals?

A: No. There is no registration fee to attend TWTP. The program will cover your housing and meals.  Your meal plan for the semester begins on Sept 5th, the first day of General Orientation. The only fee that you may expect is if there is an off-campus activity planned during TWTP. The off-campus activity will not exceed $10 or $20.

Q: Who sponsors TWTP?

A: TWTP is sponsored by the Offices of the Dean of the College and Campus Life and Student Services.  It is organized by the staff and students of the Third World Center. The Director of the Third World Center/Associate Dean of the College and the Assistant Director of the Third World Center work with and supervise the TWTP Student Coordinators.  Almost fifty students work behind the scenes to implement this pre-orientation program. The Minority Peer Counselors (MPCs) and MPC Friends work together to implement logistics, co-facilitate workshops and lead small group discussions for the participants.

Q: Why is it called the Third World Transition Program and the Third World Center?

A:  It is a question that is often asked and filled with history and interesting facts. Please feel free to explore the various parts of our website (www.brown.edu/twc) to learn more about our mission, history and why we are called the Third World Center.

Q: When I register online, will I receive a confirmation that my registration has been accepted?

A: When you submit your registration online, you will only see a web-based confirmation (not an email) that you submitted your registration. This states “Thanks for registering for TWTP! You may use the Back button in your browser to return to the TWTP home page or copy and paste this into your address bar: http://www.brown.edu/TWC/TWTP. If you have any questions, please contact the TWTP Co-Coordinators.”

Within a few days, you should receive an email from the TWTP Coordinators confirming your space for TWTP or letting you know if you are on the waitlist. You will not receive any further confirmation. Due to program constraints, we can accept only the first 225 registrants. If you choose to not remain on the waitlist, please email us at twtpc0910@gmail.com.

Q: Are there services and accommodations available for students with disabilities?

A: Yes. Students with disabilities should contact Disability Support Services (DSS) by July 15th, 2009. They can be reached at (401) 863-9588 or dss@brown.edu between 8 am and 4 pm. DSS serves students with physical, psychological, sensory and learning disabilities. Please contact DSS well in advance for specific accommodations. Additional information can be found on their website at www.brown.edu/dss .

Q: What if I need to come a day early or a day late for TWTP?

A: Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate early arrivals at this time.  We can only arrange for your pick up on Sept 1st. If you come a day late, you will need to arrange for your own transportation to campus. Please indicate the day you will arrive on your registration form.

Q: How do I get to Brown?

A: If you are coming by air, train or bus on Sept 1st, we will have a shuttle service to pick you up. Please provide the details on your registration form.  Directions to Brown are available at http://www.brown.edu/Administration/Admission/visitbrown/directions.html
Parents can park at the Power Street Parking Complex located on Brook Street between Power St. and Williams St.

Q: When do I get to Brown and where do I check in?

A:  On Sept 1st, you can check in and register for TWTP at the Office of Residential Life from 8:30 am – 5 pm. The Office of Residential Life is located at Wayland Arch at the corner of Brown and George Streets (27 Brown Street). When you check in for registration, you will receive keys to your permanent room assignment. TWTP staff will also be there to register you for TWTP and provide you with the program materials.  The Minority Peer Counselors and MPC Friends will be at the residence halls to help you with your luggage.

Q: How do I register if I come in after 5 pm on Sept 1st or on Sept 2nd?

A: If you come in after 5 pm on Sept 1st, late registration will be at the Third World Center, 68 Brown Street. You will receive your room keys as well as your TWTP registration materials.  Students will be at the Third World Center to help you with your luggage.

Late registration on September 2nd will be accepted only until 12 noon. Room keys and registration packets can be picked up at the Third World Center, 68 Brown Street. Students will have to organize their own transportation to campus. Students will be at the Third World Center to help you with your luggage.

Q: Are there any activities for my parents?

A: Yes, there are activities for parents on Sept 1st. There will be an Open House at the Third World Center (68 Brown St) from 2:00pm to 4:45pm for parents to meet with staff, faculty and students at Brown.  A discussion on ‘Letting Go’ will also be held at the TWC.  This will be followed by the Presidential Welcome Dinner from 5:00 pm – 6:30pm at Andrews Dining Hall on Cushing Street.

Q: Is there a schedule for Move-In Day (Sept 1st, 2009)?

A: Yes, there is an open schedule - Click here to view and download the schedule.

Q: What do I bring with me for TWTP?

A: An energized spirit and a curious mind!  You may want to pack a separate bag for the three days of TWTP that contains all your essentials. Even though you will be given your permanent room keys at check-in, it is advisable not to completely unpack and arrange your room if your roommate(s) are not present. This will help avoid unnecessary conflicts with your roommate on the arrangements in your room.  Please make sure to have a sweatshirt handy to handle the air conditioning in buildings!

Q: Is there a listing of local hotels and transportation for my parents?

A: Yes, there is – click here to view. 

Q: Is there a listing of places to eat or things to do in Providence?

A: Yes, there is – click here to view.