Oakland University, through the leadership of its Department of Pre-College Programs, hosted more than 400 students from around the state as part of the MI GEAR UP –Right Choices for Youth and Detroit Pistons College & Career Exploration Experience program.
“It’s so important to get these kids thinking and talking about the opportunities a college experience can offer them,” said Reginald McCloud, Director of OU’s Pre-College Programs. “This terrific partnership allows students to visit a college campus, learn about career options from professionals in the field and have the unforgettable experience of attending an NBA game.”
The first part of the event was held on Oakland’s campus with motivational speakers lighting up the O’Rena with energy and enthusiasm. Speakers included Eric Thomas, Travis Key and Ashton Henderson and each told stories in their own way that encouraged program attendees to be the best they can be and plan to succeed in life, even if their beginnings in life hadn’t been ideal.
In the breakout sessions, professionals from Palace Sports and Entertainment and the Detroit Pistons discussed a wide range of career options in the Oakland Center and South Foundation Hall classrooms. This portion of the program got students thinking about what direction they might like to go for their career aspirations.
The event was capped off with tickets to watch the Detroit Pistons vs. Washington Wizards NBA basketball game at The Palace of Auburn Hills.
Participating students came from MI GEAR UP programs at Oakland University, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, University of Michigan-Flint, University of Michigan-Dearborn, Wayne State University and Central Michigan University.
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Learn more about Oakland University’s Department of Pre College Programs at: http://wwwp.oakland.edu/precollege/
Learn more about Oakland University’s GEAR UP program at: http://wwwp.oakland.edu/precollege/programs/mi-gear-up/
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| Students begin arriving at the O'rena for the 2015 Michigan GEAR UP event. |
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| Interim Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management Glenn McIntosh welcomes GEAR UP participants to Oakland University. |
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| Students listen carefully as special guest speakers inspire them to be the best they can be! |
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| Breakout sessions give smaller GEAR UP groups the chance to learn about real world careers and ask questions about achieving their goals. |
