College Bound: Students Prep for Next Step

Phoukham “George” Vongkhioy has his sights set on becoming a nurse, and as a first generation college student hopeful, the College Bound program at St. John Fisher College helped dispel some of the mystery behind the admissions process.

A senior at Eastridge High School, Vongkhioy was among the nearly 40 students who lived on campus for five days of workshops, college tours, and team-building activities intended to help first generation, low-income high school students navigate the college experience.

“I wanted to participate in College Bound because of the opportunity it gave to learn first-hand college experience,” Vongkhioy said. “My mom doesn’t have a lot of experience with how to prepare for college, so College Bound did that for me.”

It also didn’t hurt that the program was held at his number one choice. Vongkhioy hopes to attend Fisher in fall 2020 to pursue a degree in nursing.

In addition to touring Fisher and several other local colleges and universities, College Bound students explored career options, learned the ins and outs of college applications and financial aid paperwork including the FAFSA, participated in mock admissions interviews, among other activities.

But, it hasn’t been all work. During the week, students bowled at Fairview Lanes, spent an evening at Seabreeze Amusement Park, played games in the dorms, and ate meals together provided by Fisher Dining Services.

“I’ve made friendships here that will hopefully last throughout my lifetime,” Vongkhioy said. “And, I’ve been eating really well!”