Earlier this month, 24 high school seniors from Swain County High School embarked on a statewide college tour led by GEAR UP Coordinator, Taylor Dodge. The group visited UNC-Charlotte, UNC-Greensboro, UNC-Chapel Hill, NC State, Appalachian State, and UNC-Asheville. Students also toured the International Civil Rights Center and Museum in Greensboro and attended a theatrical production of Jane Austen's "Emma" by Playmakers Repertory Theater.
Students were able to submit anonymous feedback on the trip, and here are a few of their thoughts:
"My favorite part of the trip was eating in the dining halls. All of us were completely lost and it was fun to experience it with my peers."
"It eliminated two schools off of my list, because I didn’t like the feeling I got from them. It also gave me a feel of each campus, and it was easy to compare the campuses since we saw them in a small amount of time."
"I got to talk to someone about a program I wanted to apply for, and it helped clear up some questions I had"
"I finally got to see Chapel Hill in person, and I fell completely in love. It met my every expectation."
"It influenced where I want to go. At first, I was pretty set on App State having my favorite campus. However, as we toured, and to my surprise, I loved the campuses of UNCG and UNC-Chapel Hill the most. They both felt comfortable and like good choices. Greensboro had not been at the top of the list, but this trip significantly moved up both Chapel Hill and Greensboro. In fact, I really hope I get accepted to Chapel Hill, that way I can have it as an option."
"I loved the “Emma” production. As a Jane Austen lover, I enjoyed the adaptation, as well as meeting the playwright herself (AHHH so cool!) "
"UNCG felt alive without being overwhelming, like there was more stuff going on than at somewhere like App State, but not as crazy as Chapel Hill, Charlotte, or NC State."
Swain County GEAR UP Students Tour App State
