Friday, March 28, 2014

KENNEDY/TRUMAN HIGH SCHOOLS: Trip to U of M is an eye-popping experience



In the month of March, ninth-grade students from Kennedy and Truman high schools went on a field trip to University of Michigan.  The students had the opportunity to listen to various speakers, participate in hands-on workshops and sat down for a family style luncheon.  It was an amazing experience for the students.

Upon arrival, the students entered the auditorium, where they heard speeches from important leaders.  Some of the speakers included University of Michigan President Mary Sue Coleman and the first woman of color astronaut, Dr. Mae Jemison. 

The speeches were an eye-opener for the students to see the possibilities of future achievement.  Jemison is an astronaut, physician, engineer, educator, entrepreneur and a worldwide respected voice in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math).  Her accomplishments were impressive and the students were so excited, as they were able to meet her and take a picture with her.

After the lecture experience, the students attended two hands-on workshops. 

University of Michigan engineering students led the workshops.  The Michigan students introduced themselves telling the ninth-graders about impressive degrees, as well as the current programs they are in now.  At one of the workshops, the ninth graders were able to speak to the college students on a personal level, as well as each other to discuss goals in life. 

The students were excited at the idea of possible career choices and committed to goals and actions for their future.  At another workshop, the students were put in groups to engineer a bridge to support as much weight as possible.  The bridges were tested with buckets of water.  This was a fun, as well as educational experience.  Spending time with the University of Michigan students was a great experience for the Taylor School District students and gave each one additional motivation for success.

To end the field trip, students were given a full-course lunch that was served to them in a banquet hall on campus.  A University of Michigan student was at each table to talk to the ninth graders as they ate.  All 20 of the students that attended had a wonderful time and were able to vision the possibilities one can achieve through college. 






No comments:

Post a Comment