Exciting Opportunities Await at CSRA College Night in Augusta

Exciting Opportunities Await at CSRA College Night in Augusta

Augusta was buzzing with energy on September 12 as over 4,700 attendees gathered at the Augusta Convention Center for the much-anticipated CSRA College Night. This annual event has become a staple for high school students in the area, offering a unique chance to explore a variety of educational and career options all under one roof.

A Night Dedicated to Future Leaders

This year’s College Night didn’t disappoint! With 114 colleges and universities in attendance, alongside all branches of the military and numerous local technical schools, students had an abundance of choices. Organized by Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS), the event also brought together over 177 volunteers eager to help guide students in their quest for higher education. It was a grand showcase that lived up to its promise of providing valuable information and resources.

Scholarships to Brighten Futures

A key highlight of the evening was the awarding of $15,000 in scholarships to 15 local high school seniors. One of the standout moments came when Elijah Byers, a senior from Fox Creek High School, was presented with a $1,000 scholarship by Dawn Haygood, the SRNS Director of the Office of the President and Corporate Communications. “This continues to be a huge night for high school students in our area,” noted Cindy Hewitt, SRNS education outreach specialist, who pointed out that the event has awarded over $400,000 in scholarships over the past 30 years!

A Treasure Trove of Information

The atmosphere was electric as students navigated through the convention center, in search of their perfect educational path. Gregory Thompson, Principal of South Carolina Governor’s School of Agriculture, expressed his enthusiasm about how the event helped students discover local opportunities. “Some of my students are shocked to find what local schools can offer,” he said. It’s apparent that this event doesn’t just benefit students who have their sights set on prestigious universities; it opens doors to a range of career pathways, including various technical and military options.

Personal Experiences

One student, Elyse Morrow, a senior at AR Johnson Magnet School, shared her excitement after winning a $1,000 scholarship. Attending the event with her mother, Karen Morrow, also reflected on the importance of such opportunities. “This is such a blessing, as I look for nuclear engineering opportunities at my favorite universities,” Elyse said, highlighting how College Night can truly change lives.

A Community Effort

The collaborative effort behind CSRA College Night is noteworthy. Jim Clifford, North Augusta City Administrator, attended with his son Jimmy, expressing gratitude for the efforts of SRNS and the other sponsors. With representation from the U.S. Department of Energy, local school districts, and several community partners, the night was a testament to what can be achieved through teamwork focused on youth empowerment.

Looking Ahead

As the participants reflected on the event, the sentiment was unquestionable: College Night is a vital resource for students looking to chart their educational course. According to volunteers like LaQunia Bush, a senior training specialist at SRNS, events like these are essential for young adults in the community. She stated, “I’m grateful to have been a part of such a positive and impactful event.”

Students left the convention center with newfound knowledge and inspiration, left wondering what exciting paths lay ahead. With so many resources available, it’s clear that the future is bright for those who take advantage of opportunities like CSRA College Night. The event not only helps students find educational pathways but also ignites passion and hope for endless possibilities. Here’s looking forward to next year!