Local Elementary Kids Become Rollins Students for a Day

April 20, 2006

Two Fern Creek students participate in a chemistry experiment at Rollins College

As part of the College’s first “Pathways to College Day,” approximately 120 elementary students from Fern Creek Elementary School in Orlando took a unique field trip to Rollins to learn what it’s like to be a college student.

During their visit, they were welcomed by Dean of Faculty Roger Casey, enjoyed a lesson on “The Magic of Science” courtesy of President Duncan, attended two classes taught by Rollins professors, met with students, had lunch and took a campus tour. “Pathways to College Day” was designed to teach young children the importance of planning early for college.

President Duncan shares "The Magic of Science" with Fern Creek students

“We were honored to host our friends at Fern Creek as they begin to set goals for their future,” Director of Community Engagement Micki Meyer said. “Connecting and sharing the Rollins campus with our youngest community members and watching them share in ‘a-ha’ moments throughout the day was a beautiful experience that impacted the children and our entire campus.”

Rollins students also currently mentor Fern Creek kids through a series of lessons on college awareness, goal setting, leadership and service. This effort, which is part of The Century Program, is made possible through a grant from the Foundation for Excellent Schools. With a $1 million grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, The Century Program was launched in 2003 and now involves 100 colleges and 100 public schools in high-need communities. Rollins College is the only four-year Florida institution in the program.