Creating a College-Going Culture

Career & College Family Night

Provide pictures of college(s).
Explain the difference between 2-year and 4-year colleges.
Explain the difference between a private and public college.
Explain the difference between sports and academic scholarships.
Let the students know that they can play intramural sports in college.
Invite locals who are attending college and ask them to share testimonials.
Provide food and a family friendly environment, making the event accessible for all.
Embrace diversity with all displays and activities.
Please remember: for many families, thinking about college is a new thing. It requires time for them to get use to a new idea, a new aspect to add to their lives.

For examples, access these links:
GEAR UP 4 Families Academy Trip
F amily Day Conference (# 8 on the list)
Education is the Future
UW in a Day

This information was collected by Early Outreach Partnership staff during several interviews, as well as the Early Outreach Symposium held at WSU Tri-Cities on January 22, 2010. Oversight provided by Genoveva Morales-Ledesma, Executive Director, WSU Tri-Cities, Early Outreach Programs.