Downey High School AVID 11 Embarks on College Road Trip!

64 Downey High School (DHS) juniors in the AVID program recently embarked on a 4-day, 3-night college road trip, visiting a total of 6 universities across California (February 28th – March 2nd). The itinerary included UC Santa Barbara, Cal Poly SLS, Redwoods, Stanford, San Francisco State, UC Santa Cruz, and UC Berkeley.

Expanding Horizons Beyond the Classroom

The trip aimed to provide students with invaluable college exposure, fostering their understanding of various campuses and igniting their academic journeys. By walking diverse university grounds, students gained a sense of what resonates with them in terms of campus culture and atmosphere.

First-Hand Experience, Informed Decisions

The trip offered a multifaceted college exploration. Guided tours led by knowledgeable guides showcased each institution’s history, academic offerings, student life, and extracurricular activities. Additionally, information sessions allowed admissions officers and current students to shed light on admission requirements, financial aid options, and campus support services. Interactive Q&A sessions further empowered students to gather crucial information.

Exploring Beyond the Buildings

Students weren’t confined to classrooms and lecture halls. They actively explored university campuses, immersing themselves in the sights – buildings, libraries, dorms, dining halls, and recreational facilities. This hands-on experience provided a glimpse into the potential layout of their future academic home. Notably, a visit to the famed redwood trees allowed students to connect with the surrounding Northern California environment and local attractions.

Building Dreams, One Campus Visit at a Time

The overarching goal of the college road trip was to equip students with the knowledge and experience to make informed college decisions. By experiencing various campuses firsthand, students could assess alignment with their academic, social, and personal aspirations. The trip ultimately aimed to foster a sense of belonging on a college campus, demonstrating the attainability of their educational dreams.

Check out all the photos at: https://padlet.com/mrmanz/c-o-2025-crt-feb-2024-hfz0fsi36q768eoa