DCSS hosts STARS College Network University Fair

ALBANY, Ga. – The university fair in Albany brings together students and colleges under one roof, providing a unique opportunity to future scholars.

Parents and students gathered at Albany high school to explore a range of opportunities and institutions showcased at the STARS Network University Fair.

“So, the STARS College Network is a group of 32 different universities from across the country, all committed to the idea of college access for students from smaller towns and rural areas. We were really interested in the idea of coming to different parts of Georgia, Florida, Alabama. Albany was a perfect spot for us to come to a great central location for us, for sure,” said John Palmerrea, program director, STARS College Network.

The event featured a 45-minute information session focused on guiding student through strategies for success in the college application process.

“Of all of the places they could have chosen in southwest Georgia, they chose us and they chose Dougherty county as their site partner. And, so, part of the work that we do in gear up is to ensure that students from income support communities are prepared to enter and succeed in post-secondary education. Whether that’s going to college, going to the military or going directly into the workforce,” said Dr. Alana Simmons, DCSS GEAR UP program director.

Following the session, students had the opportunity to explore the college fair and engage with representatives from participating institutions.

“Great thing about the STARS College Network is that we have all different types of colleges within it. We’ve got smaller private schools, larger public flagship institutions. We’ve got a couple of schools in Georgia that are part of the network as well. So, it’s really nice that students can come to one place and learn about 13 different schools from 13 different states in the country as well,” said Palmerrea.

The goal of DCSS, in partnership with the stars network, is to ensure that students are not only prepared for their collegiate journey, but also inspired to recognize that their potential is limitless.

“It’s so important for students to really be thinking about the college search process early and often. I say for students, we want to make sure that they have an understanding of what it looks like to apply to college. It changes so much from year to year. They’ve got great options in their backyard, but we want them to know the sky’s the limit of where they can go. This type of trip is really important to us, because we want students, especially from smaller towns and rural areas, to know our universities aren’t just full of students from the cities and the suburbs. They have a place on our campus. We want to make sure that they’re seen and really recognized,” said Palmerrea.

De’Andra Jacobs reporting.

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