9th Annual Destination College

CGCC MAKES COLLEGE A CONSIDERATION AT AN EARLY AGE

9th Annual Destination College Program Gets Elementary Students Thinking and Planning For College 

As part of its commitment to early outreach, Chandler-Gilbert Community College (CGCC) is hosting 'Destination College,' a program focused on exposing elementary students and their families to the college experience. Now through June 18, 110 sixth graders from Bologna, Frye, Galveston, Hartford, San Marcos, Shumway Elementary Schools are learning about a variety of career fields, as well as attending classes in the areas of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).

Daily guest speakers including faculty from CGCC’s math and engineering departments, Intel, Orbital, Qwaltec and the Si Se Puede Foundation are helping students explore career opportunities available through STEM education.  The Office of Student life hosted several events for the students.  Students also participate in exercise programs at CGCC's new Fitness Center in the Coyote Center with the fitness and wellness director.  Finally, Dietetic Technology students offered nutrition sessions with the students on a weekly basis.

Many of the students are first-generation citizens and future first-generation college students. They may not be aware of the opportunities available in technology, or what it takes to be an engineer, scientist or a technical professional. The STEM curriculum encourages lessons driven by problem-solving and discovery. Students are actively engaged in learning throughout the program at the college and will be able to apply what they are learning in the real world.

Destination College culminates with a graduation ceremony and reception for students and their families on Thursday, June 18 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. inside the Student Pavilion.  The program is sponsored by the Chandler Unified School District, Chandler-Gilbert Community College, The Chandler Education Foundation and The City of Chandler.