A representative from Southeastern University, left, meets with a George Jenkins High School student during the “Eagles Catching Fire” On-Site Admissions Day on November 19. Photos courtesy of George Jenkins High School
The process of researching a particular college, completing an application for the institution, and getting accepted can take weeks or even months. However, a Polk County high school recently teamed with a pair of local colleges to condense that experience into a single day.
This month, George Jenkins High School in Lakeland partnered with Polk State College and Southeastern University to host a pair of On-Site Admission Days at the high school. The second annual “Eagle to Eagle” On-Site Admissions Day with Polk State College took place November 8, while George Jenkins High hosted its inaugural “Eagles Catching Fire” On-Site Admissions Day on November 19.
Both events sought to alleviate the systemic barriers many students face in the college application process — including transportation issues — by bringing college personnel to the high school’s campus during school hours.
During the “Eagle to Eagle” event, George Jenkins students were given the opportunity to meet with representatives from Polk State’s Admissions and Advising offices at the high school’s media center, where they provided hands-on assistance with students’ applications. As a result, 36 students walked away with acceptance letters to Polk State College.
Students who attended the inaugural “Eagles Catching Fire” On-Site Admissions Day received a welcome packet that included their acceptance letter, a T-shirt, a pendant, and a vehicle decal. As a result, nine George Jenkins High students were admitted into Southeastern University.
George Jenkins High’s On-Site Admissions Days were held in conjunction with Florida College Access Network’s Apply Yourself Florida initiative and Reach Higher Polk! Week, which takes place Nov. 18-22, 2019 and seeks to raise awareness for college and career preparation.
“Eagle to Eagle” On-Site Admissions Day with Polk State College
“Eagles Catching Fire” On-Site Admissions Day with
Southeastern University
