By Julia Hess '15
Siena College hosted 96 rising juniors and seniors at New York State Association for College Admission Counseling's annual Camp College. The three day pre-college experience introduces students from across New York State to the world of higher education.
At this year's first Camp College session, students lived in the residence halls, attended mock classes taught by Siena professors, and participated in workshops to learn more about the college Admissions and Financial Aid processes. The program focuses on first generation and underserved high school students, the goal being to provide access to higher education to all that seek it.
"It's very helpful for high school students that plan on going to college," said a student participant. "If I can come back next year, I will."
The co-director of the program is Siena's own Marie Nocella, assistant director of admission and coordinator of multicultural recruitment.
"As a first generation student myself, who had to navigate the daunting admission process alone and with much adversity, it's wonderful to see a program transform students in just 3 days," said Nocella. "Students arrive overwhelmed, scared and often with a defeated attitude towards their future. I have seen thousands of students leave Camp College confident, optimistic, and excited for college. I am so happy that Ned Jones made it possible for Siena to host this amazing program. This program changes lives."
Assistant Director of Admissions Dale Taylor also worked to bring Camp College to life as Campus Liasion and has participated at Camp College for six years.
"Being a first generation college student myself, it is important for me to give back," said Taylor. "I like helping to create opportunities for other people just as others have done for me in the past."
Nocella and Taylor were joined by volunteers from local high schools and community based organizations as well as admissions officers from other colleges and universities to mentor the Camp College students.
