For many freshmen at Community High School District 218, the idea of college can feel far off. This spring, the district is bringing it a little closer.
All ninth graders are invited to visit Moraine Valley Community College in Palos Hills and the University of Illinois Chicago between late February and April. The trips are free and give students a chance to see what life on a college campus is really like.
“This could be a transformational experience for our students,” said Dr. Josh Barron, superintendent of Community High School District 218. “When our students walk onto a college campus early in their high school experience, they start to see what’s possible. They begin connecting their interests to programs, careers and goals. That sense of possibility can be powerful.”
The visits support Illinois’ Postsecondary and Career Expectations framework, which encourages schools to provide career exploration opportunities for students in grades 6-12. Research shows that early exposure to college campuses can help students picture their futures and improve their chances of success, according to the National College Access Network.
Continuing education is popular among CHSD 218 students. A survey of the Class of 2025 found that about 75% planned to pursue a two- or four-year degree, with nursing, technology, and communications among the most popular areas of study.
Most of the visits will take place at Moraine Valley, which offers both traditional degrees and career-focused programs. Each tour includes an overview of the campus, its academic programs, and dual credit and dual enrollment opportunities for CHSD 218 students.
“It’s never too early to start thinking about college, especially considering the rise in dual credit classes at high schools, not just locally but nationally,” said Madisson Younglove, Moraine Valley assistant director of communications.
“As freshmen, students can start earning college credit through classes in their high schools, and the sooner they do that, the sooner they can complete college and begin their career. Moraine Valley offers campus tours for school groups which give junior high and high school students the opportunity to meet college faculty and staff, see classroom and lab spaces and even hear from current students on campus. Through a tour, students can begin to see themselves at Moraine Valley years before they are a college student.”
Transportation and lunch will be provided, thanks to a grant from Northwestern Medicine, which covers the cost of bussing and ensures all freshmen can attend.
Students can register for a tour through the Events page in SchooLinks and must submit a completed permission form to their school counseling office before attending.