Vernon high school students got a taste of what higher education looked like, in a unique event hosted by Okanagan College.
Experience OC is an annual event to educate Grade 9 and 10 students on potential future education pathways.
Students from several high schools in the North Okanagan trekked to Vernon's Okanagan College campus for a half-day on Wednesday, May 7, to learn, educate and probe into schooling opportunities down the road.
"It was really fun," said Kelton and Sophia, W.L. Seaton Secondary students. "It was neat as it showed us a glimpse into what it would feel like going to college."
Students had more than 30 sessions to choose from, and each could pick three to attend in hour-long blocks.
Sophia picked anthropology, ancient Egypt and creative writing.
The creative writing session was held in the campus print shop, labelled 'The Bunker.' Students created their own notebook, and learned about the old-fashioned printing press. The printing and publishing class is a part of the Writing and Publishing diploma program, where students learn the old-school printing press way, along with digital publishing with Adobe Suite.
"I think it would be cool to do this again, but take different classes next time," Sophia said. "Our interests could change." She was also interested in taking the dual credit program when she gets to Grade 12.
The program is a partnership between the college and School District 22. Students can begin their college journey while still in high school by earning credits toward a credential before they graduate.
“Post-secondary can sometimes feel overwhelming and students aren’t always sure where or how to start," said Mehgan Cabrera, OC’s associate director of recruitment and enrolment management. "Experience OC is designed to ease that uncertainty, empowering students to see that their next steps are possible right here in their own community."
More information can be found at okanagan.bc.ca/office-of-the-registrar/info-sessions-experience-oc.
