On November 11, 2016 sixty young men of color from Gus Garcia Young Men’s Leadership Academy, Martin Middle School, Mendez Middle School, and Webb Middle School, attended the College for a Day event hosted by Greater Austin Area My Brother’s Keeper and the Longhorn Campaign for Men of Color. Students had the opportunity to experience college for a day through a tour of the University of Texas campus, were they visited and learned about famous landmarks, such as the UT Tower, football stadium, and dormitories. Students also had the opportunity to sit in various classes which included topics such as, time management, mastering the admissions process, and the Black athlete. For lunch, students formed small groups with a UT student leading group reflection and discussion about their classes. During this time, students were also encourage to ask the student leaders additional questions. After lunch students participated in the “Real Talk” Panel, were a panel of diverse UT students and alumni, shared their experiences as men of color on their path to college. The day ended with a town hall around a group conversation on the topic of “College: Why I Belong” encouraging students to reflect on the events and activities of the day and setting goals to make it to college.
The College for a Day event was a great success! We would like to thank all of the staff and students for making this event possible.
