Syracuse University is partnering with the Syracuse City School District to give three dozen high school students the chance to explore college life for free this summer. Up to 36 rising high school juniors will be able to take classes through the university’s Summer College Program.
Mayor Ben Walsh says students will have the opportunity to thrive.
“We need to make sure that our kids have all the tools they need and also understand that there are different pathways to progress. It may be graduating from high school and coming to Syracuse University to get your degree. It may be going through a CTE program and going straight into the workforce. The goal is to provide as many pathways to support our kids (as possible),” Walsh said.
The virtual program runs for three or six weeks during the summer and allows students to explore potential majors and get them excited about college. Executive director of pre-college programs at University College Chris Cofer says that’s key in selecting the right candidates.
“There are some kids who are ranked #1, they are top notch, set to go to an Ivy League school already, this course would be great for them and (schools) can nominate those students, but I’d rather find that student who needs that extra little push to get them excited about their future,” he said. “It’s important that we’re reaching students for the growth which they experience through the course is most impactful.”
Sponsorship of the city school students was made possible in part through a donation from IBEW Local 43 and the National Electrical Contractors Association - Finger Lakes Chapter. More information about pre-college programs or how to sponsor high school students is at precollege.syr.edu.