Confluence Preparatory Academy hosted its College and Career Fair on November 21, 2024, offering a chance for inspired and motivated students to pursue their dreams.
Teen scholars had the opportunity to connect with colleges, career professionals, and community leaders, all dedicated to supporting their paths to success.
Harris-Stowe State University President Dr. LaTonia Collins Smith announced the launch of her “Presidential Dollars for Scholars Tour,” and presented $180,000 in merit-based scholarships to deserving students.
Her generosity and commitment to higher education made a lasting impact on both the scholars and the community, according to Dr. Cierra Wourman, Confluence lead college and career counselor.
With more than 50 colleges, businesses, and organizations represented, the fair was a hub of opportunity.
Students explored career pathways, learned about post-secondary options, and engaged in meaningful conversations about their futures. From local institutions to national organizations, every participant contributed valuable resources and insights.
The gap between female and male college enrollment is widest for African American students, according to a 2018 National Center for Education Statistics report. Black students are underrepresented in higher education, in large part because of the absence of young African American men in college.
“This event was all about exposing our students to the endless opportunities available to them,” explained Wourman.
“Our post-secondary team dedicated countless hours to ensuring a diverse group of universities and career fields were represented. We wanted every scholar to see a path that resonates with their interests and ambitions.”
Christopher C. Miller, dean of students at Confluence Preparatory Academy, shared his vision for the students, which includes challenging themselves.
“The goal is for our scholars to dream big, set ambitious goals, and feel confident knowing they have a community supporting them every step of the way,” he said.
“Many of our students are prospective first-generation college graduates, and that comes with a unique set of challenges and responsibilities. At CPA, we are committed to eliminating any doubts they may have about their post-secondary plans and empowering them to succeed.”
The gap between female and male college enrollment is widest for African American students, according to a 2018 National Center for Education Statistics report. Black students are underrepresented in higher education, in large part because of the absence of young African American men in college.
According to the Blue Heart Foundation, an educational non-profit that focuses on the empowerment and education of under-served youth, advantages for Black students who attend college include:
-Higher education typically has general education requirements which allows students to explore different subjects and get a better idea of what they want to do without wasting time, money, or credits.
-The Bureau of Labor Statistics found that African American high school graduates with no college education are more than twice as likely to be unemployed than African Americans with a Bachelor’s degree or higher.
-Getting to class on time, completing assignments, and participating in group projects are standards that will be set in college. Like-minded, engaged peer groups provide a culture of support that will help African American young men welcome this kind of responsibility. The structure of higher education allows for students to consistently be rewarded for putting in hard work.
-Higher education also provides the opportunity for Black students to enroll in classes and sign up for activities that excite them, without the structured limitations of high school. They can meet people from various backgrounds and cultures that have similar interests, in addition to discovering new interests they didn’t know they had.
– Travel opportunities are often found at college. Whether an athlete, working for an athletic department or other college program, studying abroad, or working as an intern, traveling can be an education in itself.
Studies by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also show that educational attainment improves health and life expectancy.
The College and Career Fair is a cornerstone of Confluence Preparatory Academy’s mission to prepare students not only for graduation but for life beyond high school and slogan they call “To and through.”
“By connecting scholars with resources, mentors, and life-changing opportunities like those offered by Harris-Stowe State University, the school continues to cultivate a culture of ambition and support,” said Miller, who extended the school’s “deepest gratitude to Dr. Collins-Smith, Harris-Stowe State University, and all the colleges, businesses, and community members who made the event a success.”
“Together, they are helping to shape the future for a generation of leaders, thinkers, and innovators,” he said.