Each region of the Give Back Program holds a summit to provide an opportunity for scholars, families, and college representatives to engage one another and create a support group for the scholars in the program. On July 30, 2019, Give Back’s New York chapter held its second NY Summit hosted by one of Give Back’s partner schools, Queens College.
24 scholars began their day with a human knot icebreaker. Students and staff got to know each other with networking sessions, followed by a tour of the campus. Scholars participated in counseling sessions with admissions officers and the Vice President for Enrollment and Student Retention, Richard Alvarez, to work on academic improvement and college applications. Students asked questions about college preparation and were given advice on how to tailor their final two years of high school classes.
Our scholars also learned from Queens College students. In a panel, current and former Queens College students shared their campus experiences, academic challenges, and recommendations on how to effectively transition from high school to college. Scholars were then able to unwind in the game room before joining their families for our Give Back 101 workshop.
Queens College Interim President, William Tramontano, joined scholars and their families to talk about his path through higher education and the range of special opportunities at Queens College. Finally, attendees connected with Queens College staff and Give Back staff and mentors over the course of a casual barbecue dinner.
“I had so much fun and it was an amazing experience,” remarked Give Back scholar Melissa Galvis.
Give Back extends a big thank you to President William Tramontano, Vice President Richard Alvarez, Mr. John LaBarbera, Ms. Sylvia Hernandez, Mr. Joe Devito, and all the Queens College staff that made the event a success!