From the bustling streets of San Francisco to the quiet redwoods of the North Coast, the Downey High School AVID Juniors recently completed their most ambitious College Road Trip to date. Between March 10th and March 14th, our students visited a staggering eight universities in just four days, proving that when it comes to college readiness, DHS doesn’t just talk the talk, we walk the walk (and ride the bus!).
Finding the “Perfect Fit”
The goal of the AVID program is to close the achievement gap and prepare all students for college success. A massive part of that success is finding the right environment. Thanks to the support of our district and Carreras Tours, our Juniors were able to experience a diverse range of campuses:
- Coastal campuses by the beach.
- Urban centers in the heart of the city.
- Quiet retreats tucked away in the woods and rural landscapes.
By seeing these varied environments firsthand, our students are beginning to realize that “college” isn’t a one-size-fits-all concept. They are starting to see where they fit in, where they will thrive, and where their unique voices belong.
Empowerment for First-Gen Students
For many of our first-generation college students, these visits represent more than just a tour; they represent a breaking of barriers. Seeing a lecture hall or a dorm room in person transforms “college” from a distant dream into a tangible, reachable goal.
“This trip is something these students will remember for a lifetime. It truly matters for our first-gen students to see that these opportunities are within their reach.” — Shree Bhakta, AVID District Coordinator
Capturing the Memories
Our students captured photos full of memories, laughter, and “aha!” moments. These photos capture the spark of inspiration that happens when a student steps onto a campus and realizes, “I can be here.”
A Special Thank You
This whirlwind tour wouldn’t have been possible without the tireless dedication of Marvin Manzanares, DHS AVID Co-Coordinator, whose energy and organization made this record-breaking trip a reality. We also want to thank the District Administration for their continued support of the AVID mission.
The road to college is long, but after these four days in Northern California, our Juniors are further along that path than ever before.