9th Grade College Visit: A WonderFALL Day at CUNY Brooklyn

On Monday, November 4th, students in the 9th grade AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) class explored CUNY Brooklyn College. For a number of students, it was their first time venturing out of their home borough of Queens, and for others, it was their first time on a college campus.
Our LICHS students acquired quite a bit of knowledge during their field trip, learning about the five different schools that are a part of Brooklyn College. Schools focused on business, education, humanities and the social sciences, natural and behavioral sciences, along with visual, media and performing arts. Students were able to gain a better understanding of the various majors that are housed under each of the schools and the courses that they might take under them.

On our early afternoon walking tour students were able to see the 24/7 Library Cafe, the bustling Student Center, the Athletic Complex, and recreational intramural center including an on-site gym for the entire student body. The on-site tour provided our students a window into seeing what a day in the life on a college campus looks like and what their lives would be like in the next four years. Assistant Principal Natalya Duncan who attended the field trip said “It is essential to have young people envision themselves post high school. Starting college tours in the 9th grade allows students to see what they need to accomplish now and how it will be able to affect their life after they graduate high school.”

Our LICHS students had an opportunity to ask specific questions about tuition, financial aide and scholarship opportunities to tour guides. Two students Layla and Marianna who were on the field trip discussed how they noticed how many students they saw carrying laptops and books and utilizing a variety of creative spaces to study. Another student LICHS student Halima said “It is great to be part of a high school that truly believes in taking us on field trips to see what college looks like rather than just taking all the preparatory classes. I know 4-years of high school will fly by and this provides me an opportunity to take my time and really think about what I want for my future.”

It was truly a magnificent experience to watch our LICHS students begin to think about college and see themselves on a college campus while also thinking about future career options. Seeing our students engaged and curious, and looking forward to future possibilities made this field trip truly memorable experience for all.

In photo: 9th Grade AVID students w/ AP Duncan visiting CUNY Brooklyn. Picture taken in the Quad in front of the Clocktower.