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The University of North Georgia's (¹û¶³´«Ã½) College of Education hosted 116 students this June for Steps to College, a four-week enrichment for-credit program. Steps to College helps area high school students who are also English learners stay on track to graduate by earning course credits over the summer.

Steps to College started in 1999 on ¹û¶³´«Ã½'s Gainesville Campus and is funded by Jackson EMC, Habersham EMC and ¹û¶³´«Ã½.

"For some students who were previously intimidated by the prospect of applying to and attending college, this could break down some barriers," Dr. Lauren Johnson, assistant dean of the College of Education, said. "For others who already plan to attend college, participation in the program can offer them added motivation and confidence."

Students took part in either economics, civics, or college writing classes four days each week. The economics course included an end-of-course test. Students completed one of the three courses for a half-credit that will count at their high schools. They also had the chance to research potential careers and higher education paths to reach those goals.

For some students who were previously intimidated by the prospect of applying to and attending college, this could break down some barriers.

Dr. Lauren Johnson

¹û¶³´«Ã½ College of Education assistant dean

In addition to local high school teachers leading the courses, ¹û¶³´«Ã½ students and alumni served as teaching assistants. Javier Santos, a May 2022 ¹û¶³´«Ã½ graduate with a degree in modern languages with a concentration in Spanish language and literature, served as a teaching assistant.

"I wanted to continue learning more about students. I wanted to put myself out there," Santos said. "If I'm going to be a teacher, it's a great way to learn what I can do better. I wanted to help these students learn how to go to college and be successful. It was one of the most wonderful experiences. I look forward to hopefully coming back next year."

Leo David, a Cumming, Georgia, resident and rising senior at Denmark High School, is grateful for his time at the summer academy.

"These are difficult classes, but they were easy to understand, thanks to these great teachers," David said.

Rayan Munir, an Alpharetta, Georgia, resident and rising senior at Denmark High, enjoyed learning about how government works. She also was able to make connections.

"It was nice to meet new people," Munir said. "And the teachers made learning fun."