Driving past a University library evokes different emotions for different people. Some take notice and are whisked back to their college days, seeped in nostalgia. Others might cringe at the thought of brutal, late night cram sessions where the reality of their unpreparedness finally manifested in a moment of clarity – realizing there weren’t enough hours or cups of coffee to cover the sins of an entire semester’s neglect. Still others, of a younger age, might feel a sense of daunting anxiety or insecurity. Wondering how they’ll handle the college life – or if they’ll even measure up enough to be accepted into the club. For many, its as if there is an invisible barrier that just might keep them out. Are there kids in there that look like me? That come from where I come from? It can feel a long way from home when gazing up at the stately W.T. Young at Hilltop Avenue.
Of all the soundbites and labels used to describe STEAM Academy, one that has remained simple and accurate, is that we are an early college high school. As such, Freshmen at STEAM are introduced to the college campus life at the age of fourteen or fifteen. Earlier this month the class of 2028 embarked on this rite of passage as part of their English 1 curriculum. Students were challenged with a scavenger hunt that led them through the various levels of the labyrinth. They were met with confusion and disorientation as they fumbled through hallways and corridors that seemed endless. In the center of all the chaos though, a beautiful thing was happening. Fears were abated. Insecurities lifted. The veil of mystery and intimidation was torn apart. This was a critical first step not only for the students that see their futures on a University campus, but also for those headed towards different paths.
Upon their return, students reflected on the experience in a platform called Elevate. They connected the STEAM Habits of critical thinking, communicating, and collaborating to their trip. When finally left to their own devices, with all their requisite tasks completed for school, they laughed about the impromptu football game, the jokes around the table at Starbucks, and even a couple of conversations with real college students.
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