Roads to Success Pathways Students Experience Columbia University

On July 17, a group of eager students from our Roads to Success (RTS), Summer Youth Employment Program - Pathways embarked on a journey that would open their eyes to a world of possibilities. Their destination? The prestigious Columbia University for the Summer College Fair.

Our diverse group of students, many of whom recently arrived in the United States from countries across Latin America and Africa, stepped onto the ivy-covered campus with a mix of excitement and curiosity. Little did they know, this day would be a turning point in their educational journeys.

Sheila Duke, RTS CEO, captures the essence of this experience, "At Roads to Success, we believe in the transformative power of education. By providing our youth with early exposure to higher education opportunities, we are not only opening doors for them but also igniting a passion for learning and personal growth. The visit to Columbia University is a testament to our commitment to empowering our students to dream big and achieve their goals."

As our students wandered through the historic halls and lush quads of Columbia, they were doing more than just sightseeing. They were envisioning their futures, picturing themselves as college students, and realizing that higher education isn't just a dream - it's an attainable goal.

The day was filled with eye-opening experiences. Our students had the chance to meet representatives from over 50 colleges, each offering a unique pathway to success. They asked questions, gathered brochures, and started to piece together the puzzle of their educational futures.

For many, this was their first time setting foot on a college campus. The impact was profound. Students who had never considered college as an option suddenly saw it as a real possibility. Those who felt intimidated by the admission process gained clarity and confidence. And everyone left with a better understanding of the resources and support available to help them achieve their dreams.

But the benefits of this trip extend far beyond college awareness. Our students, many adjusting to life in a new country, found a sense of belonging in the diverse and inclusive atmosphere of the college fair. They began to see themselves as part of the American educational landscape, capable of succeeding in this new environment.

The Columbia visit wasn't just about academics - it was about personal growth too. Students returned with newfound confidence, motivated to set higher goals for themselves. They started to dream bigger, reaching for opportunities they might have previously thought were out of their grasp.

As we reflect on this transformative day, we're filled with pride for our students. Their enthusiasm, their questions, and their wide-eyed wonder remind us why we do what we do at Roads to Success. We're not just preparing students for college; we're preparing them for life.

This college fair visit is just one chapter in the ongoing story of RTS's commitment to our youth. As we continue to provide these enriching experiences, we look forward to seeing our students soar to new heights, break barriers, and become the leaders of tomorrow.

At Roads to Success, we're cultivating more than individual achievement - we're nurturing a generation of informed, motivated, and empowered individuals who will shape the future of their communities and beyond.

And it all starts with experiences like this - a summer day at Columbia University that just might change lives forever.