“College Knowledge Week” was celebrated at Selma High from November 12 to 15, excluding Monday, as the administration recognized Veterans Day through not requiring students to attend. Throughout the week, the school organized lunchtime activities, designed to encourage students to seek higher education.
On Tuesday, a table was set up in the quad where students could color drawings of various college mascots. There was considerable participation and the event gained much attention. Those running the activity also answered some inquiries from students regarding certain colleges and universities.
Wednesday featured an information table, operated by representatives of West Hills Community College and the California State University, Fresno. A number of students gained information from the table, with many seniors asking about possible majors, transferable courses, pathways, scholarships, application deadlines and the like.
Manter, being an AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) teacher and Rodriguez as an AVID tutor, assisted students on Thursday. They were able to help those who approached with inquiries about different colleges at their table, even though the day was more concentrated on assistance with applications to the California State University (CSU) and University of California (UC) systems. Naturally, there are more resources available to students as well, which they emphasized.
“Some other resources for students,” Manter added, “of course include AVID. If you’re really thinking about going to college, joining AVID is a really beneficial thing. Also looking at the bulletin to see if there are workshops or field trips, I would take advantage of that.”
Rodriguez upheld the importance of these school events and further explained to students additional things to consider when looking to apply to college.
“I would suggest,” Rodriguez said, “taking advantage of your counselors, your teachers, any mentors. If you’re in any programs, like Upward Bound, you have a lot of people to reach out to.”
Another information table was established in the quad, focusing on Fresno City College, on Friday. Manter was present along with Andrea Torrez. Torrez attended Fresno City before transferring to a four-year university. She then earned a degree in psychology and returned to work for Fresno City as an outreach specialist, traveling to help students with college applications and to promote matriculation.
Friday perhaps garnered the most participation of the events throughout the week, with many approaching Manter and Torrez about Fresno City and other postsecondary opportunities. Naturally, some were hesitant to make the walk to the table, but once more students started to the table, they often joined.
The week was considered a success, as any student that is persuaded to apply to a college, university, trade school or other warranted the school’s efforts. It was also the wish of the representatives in attendance to remind students that time is especially of the essence now, as many applications will be due in coming weeks. This does not just include those for schools, but also for financial aid, such as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Many ponder why they should bother attempting to matriculate, as the benefits do not seem immediately apparent upon graduation at a college or university. However, Rodriguez emphasized the significance in earning a degree.
“I think it serves to break down some barriers,” Rodriguez commented, “A lot of students are first-generation, with parents who have not navigated higher education. Higher education allows them to break down these barriers and, possibly, be more successful and have a better, more fulfilling career.”
“The more knowledge you have,” Manter asserted, “the more power you have in the decisions you make.”
