The Metro Center Tutoring Program Conducts 3rd Annual “Road to College” Conference

Phaedra Tucker, Administrative Aide for the Metro Center Tutoring Program states, “College preparation begins now!”

            On April 22, 2008 the Metro Center Tutoring Program conducted its 3rd annual “Road to College” conference.  Under the guidance of Yolanda Fordham, Director of the Metro Center Tutoring Programs (MCTP), Sabrina Sanchez and Phaedra Tucker organized a full day of activities for 70 juniors and seniors.  Dr. Pedro Noguera, esteemed author and Executive Director of the Steinhardt’s Metropolitan Center for Urban Education, spoke about the importance of achieving goals, making the most of their high school experience, and balancing family life and work.

            Many of Metro’s staff participated in the event.  Pat Ryan, Director of the Upward Bound Program (UB), Marilyn Sommer and several of their tutors, contributed their time along with the MCTP tutors in the coordination of the day’s events.  UB tutors demonstrated their support by assisting Pat and Marilyn with workshops; along with Yader Lanuza and Linsey Edwards (Liberty Partnerships Program tutors).  Morning workshops included the College Application Process, FAFSA Preparation, and Researching Options for College via the Internet.  In addition, the students were able to partake in a true all-you-can-eat college dining hall experience at Weinstein Hall.  After lunch, students attended the Drama Workshop where they participated in activities which helped them express their aspirations, expectations and fears related to their first year in college.  The students attended the Career/Trades Workshop where representatives from the Fire Department, Police Department, Education and a variety of trades and vocations discussed topics such as job, education and skill requirements for each field, as well as options for related fields and starting salaries.

            The day ended successfully as students had the opportunity to speak with a panel of 1st Generation College Students in the last workshop.  The panel spoke earnestly about their fears, expectations and experiences during their first year.  Also, the panel included an Upward Bound graduate who entered the workforce instead, and shared his perspective on his life as a person who did not go straight to college.

            To enhance the students’ experience even more, the next day they embarked on a college tour at SUNY Delhi.  During the admissions meeting, scholars were able to ask pertinent questions about campus life, admission requirements, and college counselors.  The day also included lunch and a tour of the campus.

            This event was specifically tailored for our New York City high schools, which include Louis Brandeis HS, Christopher Columbus HS, Evander Childs HS, Adlai Stevenson HS, and Brooklyn Academy HS.  It would not have been possible without the help and support of the Metro Center as well as staff from each school.