South Aiken, September 2, 2025
News Summary
South Aiken High School celebrated the launch of College Application Month with a college fair, engaging 190 seniors and providing them access to university representatives. This initiative allows students to apply to participating colleges without application fees, aimed at increasing college accessibility, particularly for first-generation students. The South Carolina Commission on Higher Education supports this drive to improve the college degree attainment rate statewide. Events like these help students navigate their educational options and explore available funding sources.
South Aiken – South Aiken High School launched College Application Month with a college fair on August 27, 2025, aiming to guide seniors through the college application process. The event attracted a significant turnout, with 190 students registered to meet with representatives from several universities, including Winthrop University, Paine College, USC Aiken, Aiken Technical College, and Lander University. These representatives were present to assist students in completing their applications and to provide vital information about various institutions.
College Application Month is an initiative that runs from August to November in South Carolina, providing students the chance to apply to participating colleges without the burden of application fees. This period is particularly beneficial for first-generation college students who may face additional financial challenges. The elimination of these fees makes the college application process more accessible and reduces financial stress for students, particularly when considering multiple institutions.
The college fair held at South Aiken High School aligns with the broader goals of the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education, which aims to increase the state’s college degree attainment rate from 50.1% to 60% by 2030. The commission is organizing over a dozen events across the state during College Application Month to expand students’ awareness of educational opportunities and pathways.
Among the students participating in the event, senior Jayden Broughton highlighted the difficulties that application fees can impose on families, stating that waived fees significantly improve access to education. Another senior, Chase Gantt, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of financial considerations in choosing a college.
Principal Sam Fuller expressed support for initiatives that provide students with the knowledge they need to explore higher education options. Jobina Wiemer, the lead school counselor at South Aiken High, noted that many scholarships are often overlooked by students. Events like the college fair are crucial in bridging that gap and helping students discover potential funding sources.
Both students and educators recognized the diverse priorities that seniors have when selecting colleges. These include financial aid opportunities, community atmosphere, campus safety, and the overall quality of academic programs. Understanding these factors can play a critical role in students’ decisions and future educational pursuits.
Reflecting on her experiences, Kathy Rollins, the college access program manager for the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education, emphasized her commitment to helping students explore their higher education options. As a first-generation college graduate herself, Rollins understands the challenges many students face in navigating the college landscape.
Last year, College Application Month brought together around 46,000 students through over 250 events across South Carolina, showcasing the state’s commitment to supporting educational endeavors. The current initiatives strive to raise awareness about the options available to students and encourage them to pursue post-secondary education.
Key Features of College Application Month
- Event Dates: August 27, 2025, to November 2025
- Total Participants: 190 students at South Aiken High School
- Participating Universities: Winthrop University, Paine College, USC Aiken, Aiken Tech, Lander University
- Goals: Increase college degree attainment in South Carolina from 50.1% to 60% by 2030
- Application Fee Waivers: Available at participating schools
- Statewide Events: Over a dozen to be held during College Application Month
- Last Year’s Stats: More than 250 events with approximately 46,000 student participants
FAQs
What is College Application Month?
College Application Month is a period in South Carolina from August to November where students can apply to participating colleges without application fees, aimed at increasing college access and awareness.
How do application fee waivers work?
Application fee waivers allow students to submit their college applications without paying the typical fees, making it easier for them to apply to multiple colleges.
Why is this initiative important for first-generation college students?
This initiative is crucial for first-generation college students, as it helps alleviate financial barriers and provides essential information to navigate the college application process.
Chart: Key Features of College Application Month
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Duration | August 27, 2025 – November 2025 |
| Participants | 190 students at South Aiken High School |
| Schools Involved | Winthrop, Paine College, USC Aiken, Aiken Tech, Lander |
| Goal for Degree Attainment | Increase from 50.1% to 60% by 2030 |
| Number of Events Last Year | 250+ events |
| Participants Last Year | 46,000 students |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- WRDW: Local Seniors Get Help with College Applications
- Wikipedia: College Application Month
- Post and Courier: College Application Month at South Aiken High
- Google Search: College Application Month South Carolina
- WJBF: South Carolina’s College Application Month Aids Thousands of Students
Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
The AIKEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAiken.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Aiken, Aiken County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Aiken Horse Show, Aiken Bluegrass Festival, and polo matches at Whitney Field. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Aiken County Historical Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as Bridgestone and the Aiken County Visitors Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
