Explore KC Day Invites Prospective Students to Get a Glimpse into College Life

Register for Explore KC Day: https://www.jotform.com/220524600160136

Springtime means high school juniors and seniors across the community are starting to make their higher education plans, and Kaskaskia College wants to make sure local students are prepared for their future. Kaskaskia College is hosting Explore KC Day on Friday, April 4, where high schoolers will learn about what KC has to offer, meet with faculty, take tours of campus, and hear directly from current students in a Q&A panel.

Attending college leads to increased salaries and more job opportunities while teaching students vital expertise in various career fields. Community colleges offer lower tuition costs, are close to home, and allow students to earn certificates or pick up skills that can lead to a job in less than four years. Community colleges also create a great platform for students to continue their degree at a larger university later in their educational journey. Kaskaskia College boasts 45 career-driven degrees and 65 certificates across many different fields of study. KC also has over 200 articulation agreements with universities so students can continue their education after attending. Kaskaskia College Student Outreach Coordinator Carrie Hancock said it's important for those considering KC to see the campus in person and hear from college students at Explore KC Day.

"I have six current KC students who will be on the Q&A panel, and it's more personal when high schoolers hear from those around their age," Hancock said. "I remember when I was a student going on visits and it was different for me hearing from an adult up at the podium compared to hearing someone my age who I could connect with. The student panel was a huge hit last year, and we're bringing it back in the same format. We want prospective students to feel prepared and have a good grasp of what life at Kaskaskia College is like. The student panel makes the experience authentic for them."

Illustrating the hands-on, community college approach, high schoolers at Explore KC Day will also get to meet with faculty and see demonstrations in classrooms across campus. Hancock said while some high school students are used to fast-paced, surface-level tours, Explore KC Day is a much more in-depth, interactive experience. Students are also encouraged to bring parents or guests, as students might be hesitant about college or have trouble deciding what programs to explore.

"I think it's huge for future students to truly explore our campus, the different majors we have, and the services we offer, Hancock said. A lot of people don't realize how big we are. Yes, we're a community college, but our campus is more than just the buildings you see from the highway. Our buildings have been renovated, and our classrooms have the high-tech, real-world equipment students can expect to use in the professional world. When they come to see our campus and our professors show off their industry knowledge and state-of-the-art equipment, it makes a lasting impact. We also offer the college life that some students are looking for, and we have so much for students to see.

Students attending Explore KC Day will receive both breakfast and lunch and will also receive swag bags with KC gear. The event starts at 8 a.m. Those visiting will also get to sign up for three different programs of interest to explore.