The importance of getting a college education was emphasized by university professors, research scientists, and extension staff during a recent college visitation day program for 9th – 12th-grade students.  “Prairie View A&M University produces productive people,” is a familiar quote heard by many who visited “On the Hill.”  During their tours and sessions, the high school group observed the relevance of this quote.

The “iGens”, the generation born in 1996 or later, from Eisenhower High School are enrolling in college and pondering their future careers.  Matriculating through the college of their dream is a major priority!   “They need to learn about the attributes and skills needed to cultivate the college application process,” said iAspire College Seminar teacher Ms. Kanika Simmons.   More than 142 people experienced the “On the Hill” survey experience!  Eighty-eight percent of these students indicated they would apply for college before graduating high school.

Dr. Rukeia Addresses 4 H Participants 4 H Participants In The CEP Auditorium

The 4-H unit planned a series of interactive seminars, hands-on workshops, and tours for their enjoyment.  During the opening ceremony of the program at the Carden-Waller Auditorium, Mrs. Talia Washington and another former employee led the crowd with the “PV- You Know!” chant.

Twelve Aldine I.S.D. teachers and staff were recognized by Ms. Simmons for their support of the college visitation program.  4-H Program Leader, Dr. Rukeia Draw-Hood followed sharing with the group information regarding the 4-H S.A.L.E. scholarships, university-wide scholarships and summer camps.  Tips on the college admission process, ACT, and SAT tests were highlighted by Mrs. Verlica Pope and Mrs. Amparo Navarette.

4 H Participants Conducting Soil Tests Dr. McWhinney And Assistants Atthe Demonstration Kitchen

Divided into five groups, the Gen Z youth rotated to various interactive programs, led by college professors, staff, and research scientists.  Agendas items were Root Beer Making – Dr. Milton Daley, The Wonders of Yogurt (and Yogurt Bar) – Dr. Sharon McWhinney, Making Tote Bags and No-Sew Fleece Scarves – Mrs. Minnie Cyrus & Mr. Joshua Williams, and the Plant and Soil Systems research were offered by Drs. Peter Ampim and Aruna Weerasooriya. A video on PVAMU history, a tour of a University apartment, laundry facilities and Computer Lab of University College were shared by Mrs. Michelle Black.  All gatherings intensified desires of the iGen teens to enroll at PVAMU!

Minnie Cyrus Educating Students On Sewing Basics 4 H Participants In Home Economics Lab

After observing the college setting, asking questions about college life, and participating in discussions on careers, why college is a viable choice, experiencing various workshops, the group walked away with a taste of the services and treasures of this 1890 land-grant college. 4-H Program Specialist Dr. Joice A. Jeffries was the event coordinator. “PV-You Know!”

Photo credit by Dr. Joice A. Jeffries.

Dr. Joice A. Jeffries
Joice A. Jeffries, Ph.D.
Program Specialist, 4-H and Youth Development
(936) 261-5148
jojeffries@pvamu.edu