Hollywood, MD.–High school students swarmed the 50-plus stations to gain valuable information that could help advance their education down the road. Maryland colleges were well represented at this event. Included was the College of Southern Maryland, the University of Maryland, College Park; Salisbury University, Towson University, and St. Mary’s College of Maryland.
“Well, we try to reach out to students who are graduating, in addition to adults who aspire to obtain a two-year degree, and hopefully go on to earn their four-year degree as well,” said Shelby Potts, who is the assistant director of admissions at the College of Southern Maryland.
Several different high schools were in attendance at the informational event, including four from Calvert County, and three from St. Mary’s County.
Brian Oakey, who works as an admissions counselor for St. Mary’s College of Maryland was very happy with the overall turnout at the event.
“What we are trying to do with our program is to make St. Mary’s County more attractive for young people to want to go to college here. A lot of people do not consider us because we are so close in location to the students high school. We would like to say that we have a great opportunity for the students, and that we also have world class academic programs,” said Oakey.
In addition to all the information that was passed out to help the future college students, loans and scholarships were also heavily advertised to students who need financial help.
Mark Smith, the coordinator of Special Programs of St. Mary’s County Public Schools and the treasurer of BECA [Business Education Community Alliance], had much to offer these young men and women in the form of scholarships.
“Our primary focus is offering scholarships; this year we raised $18,000 for scholarships. Last year I believe we raised $24,000, through our benefit dinner and lots of support through county leaders,” said Smith.
Theo Cotsonas, a junior who is currently attending Leonardtown High School, was excited to see what he needed to do in order for colleges to accept him into their programs.
“I am very interested in service academies, I am very interested in the United States Naval Academy. I am like any other kid. I play sports, I hang out with my friends, but I am working very hard for colleges to notice me,” said Cotsonas.
Photos in gallery provided by Ron Bailey TheBayNet.com news photographer.
Contact Charles Seifert at c.seifert@thebaynet.com
