“I wanted to become a part of Transition School (TS) not only to explore advanced academic topics, but to meet classmates who share a passion for learning and encounter new perspectives,” said Brian Zhang, a current TS student.
Elina Nizam, shared her reason: “I want to be a part of TS because I believe that it will truly get me ready for matriculation into the University of Washington and help me to start building good habits inside and outside of the classroom. I also really enjoy how collaborative and engaged everyone is when it comes to classwork.”
Their answers echo a theme across generations of TS students: rigorous learning can be both challenging and joyful when surrounded by peers who share the same drive.
In the 48 years since the Early Entrance Program (EEP) began at the University of Washington, the Robinson Center for Young Scholars (RC) has evolved significantly. Four years after EEP’s beginning, Halbert and Nancy Robinson launched a one-year preparatory program to support students’ transition to the UW. In 1980, the first TS cohort of 11 students was admitted. While core structures remain — four subjects: language arts, history, mathematics and science — TS has continued to grow over the decades. Head of School, Chance Sims, has expanded health and wellness support, adding a full-time counselor this year and revising the advisory model to deepen instructional support.
This year's cohort of 20 students is a diverse group of learners eager to take on the TS adventure. To capture life at the RC right now, we asked students a few questions about their experiences. Here’s what they had to say.
What are you looking forward to in TS this year?
- “I look forward to tackling demanding topics and forming a strong community with my peers.” – Mackenzi Little
- “I’m eager to learn in an environment filled with discussion and debate, surrounded by others who are just as curious.” – Ilyannie T. Gonzalez
- “Becoming close with my classmates and instructors—and yes, I’m definitely looking forward to our ‘baking day!’” – Elina Nizam
What sorts of topics or areas of study interest you?
- “Wildlife biology and animals—especially wolves, cats, and marine life.” – Lydia Thomas
- “Mathematical problem-solving and abstract computer science.” – Kyle Liao
- “Biology and how it connects with other fields, especially medicine.” – Brandon Peng
- “Philosophy, political science, and writing—I love exploring ideas through words.” – Ilyannie
Why did you want to be part of TS?
- “I wanted to be in an environment where students genuinely care about learning.” – Lydia
- “To engage in a rigorous academic setting and connect with peers who share that passion.” – Brandon
- “To experience academic challenge and build friendships with others who value knowledge.” – Brian
What do you like to do for fun or for relaxing?
- “Tinkering with online graphing calculators or reading with my family.” – Mackenzi
- “Logic puzzles and exploring new math concepts for fun.” – Kyle
- "In my free time, I enjoy playing water polo with my team, reading novels, or simply relaxing." – Brian
- “Baking, playing badminton, and reading fantasy novels.” – Elina
What motivates you to push through challenges?
- “Remembering the satisfaction that comes from figuring something out.” – Lydia
- “An urge for completion.” – Kyle
- “Keeping my long-term goals in mind and visualizing success.” – Brandon
- “Taking things one step at a time and leaning on my friends and family.” – Elina
Each year, the Transition School evolves to meet the needs of a changing world. The courses invite students to engage with complex topics, stretch their thinking about core subjects, and approach learning as an inquiry rather than a routine. The RC’s instructors and staff continue to nurture that balance of challenge and care, ensuring the program remains a place where students can grow intellectually while finding genuine community.
As these young scholars remind us, Transition School’s spirit is defined by students’ curiosity, persistence and joy in learning. The Robinson Center has evolved over 48 years, but one thing endures: the community that forms when students stretch their minds and support one another. Today’s students are not only carrying forward the RC legacy but also shaping its future.