Rural high schoolers connect with campus

December 7, 2023

By Rachel Pharr

The University of Georgia recently hosted a group of students and teachers from Colquitt County High School to demystify the collegiate experience and learn what it means to be a Georgia bulldog. The visit is part of a pilot program, the Rural Writing Project, made possible by a grant from the Parents Leadership Council and Franklin College of Arts and Science’s English department with Nate Kreuter serving as program lead. In the program, high school students are paired with college students in UGA’s first year writing classes who serve as peer mentors. These mentors assist rural high schoolers with their writing and answer questions about what it is like to be in college and how to be a successful student. 

During the students’ visit on November 14, 2023, they toured campus and met with several groups including a panel of Rural Student Ambassadors who shared about their experiences at UGA. Connecting the CCHS students with The CCHS students also attended a presentation from Amy Warrington, assistant director of initiatives, who discussed Division of Academic Enhancement services and the ALL Georgia program. 

“We're excited to support partners like the English department and the Rural Writing Project, a program where students can grow as writers and members of their communities,” states Warrington. “Our rural student ambassadors had the opportunity to share their experiences as undergraduates at the University of Georgia and develop relationships with high school students to share how they too can thrive as future bulldogs.”