The trip, sponsored by Bridges to College, was designed to introduce students to college and a college campus.
“Sixth graders are beginning to think about jobs and what type of education is needed for those jobs,” said Beth Sears, executive director of Bridges to College. “So many jobs now require some type of education after high school. This could be an apprenticeship, specialized training, or a college degree.”
Bridges to College, a non-profit organization, serves students in Greenville and Ansonia schools. It aims to increase the number of students going to college by offering educational programming, one-on-one mentoring, and scholarships.
In the past, it focused its educational programming on high school students. This year, it is expanding to include middle school and junior high students.
“If a student wants to go to college, they should prepare in junior high and high school by taking the right classes and challenging themselves,” Sears said.
Earlier this month, 55 Ansonia sixth-graders took at 75-minute tour of the Wright State campus. During the tour, they visited academic buildings, the library, the Student Union, the campus recreational facilities, the dining hall, and the residence halls.
“For many students, this was their first time on a college campus,” Sears said. “Now, when teachers and others talk about college, more students will have a concrete concept of what college may be like.”
Many students were discussing what type of job they want and where they might like to go to college while they were still on the Wright State campus.
Ansonia Elementary Principal Krista Stump said this was a great opportunity for the students.
“I am certain that seeds were planted that will help give kids a vision of going to college,” she said.
When the students returned to Ansonia, they were given the booklet, “My Future, My Way: First Steps Toward College-A Workbook for Middle and Junior High School Students.” The booklet introduces college types (two, four years), academic requirements and financial aid.
Bridges to College also sponsored a trip to Wright State University for Greenville sixth graders.
“A grant from the Greenville Rotary made these trips possible,” Sears said. “Bridges to College is very thankful that the Rotary provided support for this type of programming.”
To learn more about Bridges to College, please visit its website at www.bridges2college.org.
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