As students go back to school with stories about what they did over the summer break, nine students from the Adirondacks will return with much more than a story. This summer they joined ninety other students from New York City and Florida to take part in the College Explore program run by College For Every Student. CFES employs three core practices –Mentoring, Leadership Through Service, and Pathways to College – to help underserved students get to and through college, and ready to enter the workforce.

College Explore, a three day residential program, provides a unique opportunity for CFES Scholars entering their junior or senior year to experience life on a college campus and receive guidance on getting admitted to college.

“To mirror the college application process, students must first be accepted into the competitive program by completing an online application and submitting personal statements and references,” said CFES College Ambassador Andrea McDonald. “This year we partnered with Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs, NY; Roger Williams University in Bristol, RI; and Paul Smith’s College in Paul Smiths, NY.”

Life on Campus

Participants live in college dorms, attend classes taught by college professors, participate in admissions and financial aid workshops, learn college interview and essay writing skills, and take part in leadership activities.

“Coming to College Explore, I expected to learn about all things college. We were taught about things like applying to college, paying for college, and college life; but we also got to ask a panel of college students our questions,” said Erick DuShane of Crown Point, NY. “My favorite part was meeting a whole bunch of new friends that will, in some way, help me on my pathway to college.”

Group mentoring sessions were led by college admissions professionals and college students who provided practical instruction about the college application process, offering insights into the academic and personal qualities admission representatives seek out in applicants. Mentor groups focused on the value of self-evaluation, key elements of college success, campus life, how to choose the right college, and how to help create a college-going culture in their high schools.

College Explore Participants Gain Experience

CFES Scholar Emily Maicus, a senior at AuSable Valley High School, was enthused about “the opportunity to interact so closely with college admissions counselors. In conversing with the counselors, I was able to learn much about the expectations of colleges during the application process, and was given many tips as to how to fine-tune my application so that I stand out among the many.”

“Before this group session I did not know much about the personal essay or what to write about,”said Justin Haverlick of Keene. “Afterwards I had a much better idea about what to write and how I could convey my ideas to make my essay stand out.”

Danielle Cris, of Peru, NY was struck by the advice on choosing a college given to her by Roger Williams University Coordinator of Multicultural Recruitment Don Mays. “You are going to be living there for the next four or more years, make sure you can call it home.” She was also excited to hear that “there is money out there, you just need to find it . . . don’t let money be the reason you don’t further your education.” Upon returning home, Danielle created a binder to organize colleges she’s interested in and their requirements, a good first step on her pathway to college.

Although the students were the most direct beneficiaries of the CFES College Explore program, their parents also got a taste of what the college experience will entail for them. “I will admit that I was nervous leaving her there,” said one mother. “However, I did feel that the CFES staff was very helpful and pleasant. When I picked my daughter up from Skidmore, she only had good things to say about her entire experience; how helpful her mentors were, and how she liked staying in a dorm. I believe that this experience has helped to increase her self-confidence as well as prepare her for her last two years of high school and the transition to college. I think it was an incredible opportunity for her.”

In the upcoming academic year Erick, Emily, Justin, Danielle, and the other Adirondack CFES Scholars who attended College Explore will return to their school districts – Ticonderoga, Crown Point, Willsboro, Keene, AuSable, Peru, and Northern Adirondack Central School – more informed about the admissions process ahead, better prepared to continue their pathway to college, and with a few new friendships as well.

Related articles

• CFES Students Train to Become Leaders (www.essexonlakechamplain.com)
• Mentors Give Back to Help Students Succeed (www.essexonlakechamplain.com)
• College for Every Student (www.essexonlakechamplain.com)