First-year students want to do all they can to make their new residence hall a comfortable home away from home. But for some students, purchasing essentials such as sheets and towels presents a financial burden. Trinity established the Transition Fund in spring 2019 to help students from underrepresented socioeconomic communities cover the costs of basic necessities when they arrive on campus. It provides these students with toiletries and essential items for day-to-day dorm living. Eligible students can opt in, and the items will be waiting for them when they arrive at their residence hall on move-in day.
The impact of this simple gift is profound. Nicole Fratto ’13, who manages this program from the Office of Admissions, says that students are grateful for the Residence Hall Essentials Kit because it helps with these hidden costs of college and alleviates stress associated with living on a tight budget among new peers.