As a part of a network-wide initiative to get high schoolers ready for higher education, Concept Schools held its first centrally organized Historically Black Colleges and Universities trip on Nov. 13 to Atlanta.
Around 20 students were joined by their parents and staff members down south to check out Morehouse College, Spelman College, and Clark Atlanta University. The trip featured activities across the city and showed the students a glimpse into what college life could look like for them.
“My experience on the trip was really enlightening,” said HSA student Frankie Pete. “I had never really looked into HCBUs since I had only looked at PWIs. To be on the campus at an HBCU was enlightening to see what they offer black students. I didn’t realize how important and powerful (HBCUs) are and it really changed my perspective.
“It actually made me make my decision to go to Clark Atlanta since I’ve already been accepted.”
Concept’s Director of College and Career Success and Executive Director of Future Institute Sam Davis believes trips like these are important for high schoolers’ future success.
“HBCU trips are vital because they show students opportunities for higher education and help them feel connected to their culture,” said Davis. “These visits encourage students to prepare for college by introducing them to strong programs, supportive communities, and successful role models. They also teach the history of HBCUs and inspire students to imagine their future in college.”
Concept is planning its next trip to Ivy League schools and Hispanic-serving institutions down the line after receiving great feedback from the students who attended the trip to Atlanta. For more information about Future Institute, check out this link.