Camp College begins with a 2 1/2 day college planning retreat to help rising seniors from Hamilton County with the college application and financial aid processes. Students work with dedicated college admission professionals and college counselors, from across the country, on various parts of the college admission process including:
- College selection
- Essay writing
- Interview skills
- Filling out college and scholarship applications
- Understanding financial aid (A special program for parents is included on the last day of the Camp College retreat)
In addition to the retreat, Camp College provides college tours, an ACT test prep course, and informational and celebratory dinners for Camp College students during their senior year.
Who can attend?
Up to 60 rising seniors who meet at least one of the following criteria:
- First generation college student
- Low income (free or reduced lunch)
- Passport Scholar
- Client of College Access Center
Students will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis; however students must: (1) be on course to graduate in 2008; (2) have a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or better; (3) demonstrate financial need; (4) and/or be recommended by a guidance counselor or college advisor. The spaces will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
Where and when will it take place?
The next Camp College will be July 30–August 2, 2008, and recruiting will begin in March. Students and faculty will be housed on the campus of Sewanee, the University of the South, a liberal arts college in Sewanee, TN (approximately 45 minutes from Chattanooga).
How much does it cost?
All Camp College programs are provided free of charge to Camp College students and their families. Camp College is sponsored by Sewanee: The University of the South and by contributors to the College Access Center.
What previous participants have said about Camp College:
Students:
"This really gave me a good understanding of how admission works."
"I learned about 3-2 programs in engineering at Camp College. I got a head start on the whole process."
"This was a great experience. The faculty really helped us. Everyone should do this program."
"I am grateful for the privilege to come here and meet so many people and administrators."
"The essay session really helped me to prepare my essays and learn how to develop a well written essay."
"Before Camp College, I was so focused on the price, that I began limiting myself to what colleges I could attend, but this program helped me mentally break that limitation."
"It was great finding out that I have way more choices about colleges than I thought."
"I loved learning how it might be living on campus."
"I found out a lot about what the schools were expecting from a potential student."
"The best part was getting to know the faculty and finding out how I can improve the skills I need to apply for college."
"I'm so glad that I came. I wish that everyone could have this experience. Thank you. I will never forget it."
Parents:
"My daughter has better insights into college and how to get started."
"This program has eliminated a lot of the fears about applying to college. Now I know that financial aid is available."
