Aiken, SC, September 2, 2025
News Summary
At South Aiken High School, local students are participating in College Application Month, which encourages them to engage with college advisors and representatives. The initiative includes waived application fees and aims to raise awareness about educational opportunities, particularly for first-generation college students. With significant participation, the program aims to increase the degree attainment rate in South Carolina as it supports students through the college application process.
Aiken, SC – Local students at South Aiken High School are actively engaging in College Application Month, a program aimed at guiding them through the college application process. The event, which started on August 27, provides students an opportunity to meet with advisors and college representatives to discuss their future educational paths.
During the event, senior student Jayden Broughton expressed his interest in attending either USC Columbia or Winthrop University. The event facilitates discussions around college options, with Broughton highlighting the financial relief offered through waived application fees. He noted that the reduction of these fees can significantly ease the financial burden on students.
Kathy Rollins, the college access program manager for the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education, emphasized the importance of raising awareness regarding college opportunities. According to the Commission, 50.1% of South Carolinians currently hold a degree beyond a high school diploma, with a target of achieving 60% by the year 2030. This initiative aims to help more students pursue higher education, particularly those who may be first-generation college students.
Sam Fuller, principal at South Aiken High School, plays a pivotal role in promoting various college options among students, including notable institutions like the Citadel and Columbia College. His involvement ensures that students are informed about the diverse opportunities available to them, fostering an environment of encouragement for higher education.
As part of College Application Month, thirty-five different schools are participating and offering application fee waivers. This initiative has been critical, particularly in light of the financial challenges faced by students during the application process. In fact, registration for participation at South Aiken High School saw 190 students sign up to benefit from these resources.
The South Carolina Commission on Higher Education has observed substantial participation in the program, having organized over 250 events across the state in 2024, attracting approximately 46,000 participants. The Commission plans to conduct at least a dozen events throughout the month, ensuring continued support and resources for aspiring college students.
Discussions surrounding financial aid and scholarships have been integral to this initiative, as students and staff recognize the importance of these topics in the college application process. The information provided by college representatives during the event has been noted as essential for students to discover available opportunities and navigate their future educational choices successfully.
Key Highlights of College Application Month
- Event began on August 27 at South Aiken High School.
- Participation from 190 students registered to engage with advisors and representatives.
- Over 250 events held across South Carolina in 2024.
- Financial aid and scholarship discussions emphasized as essential resources.
- Offering of application fee waivers by 35 schools during the initiative.
Background Context
College Application Month serves as a crucial platform for students to explore their educational options and understand the importance of pursuing higher education. With the goal of increasing the higher education attainment rate in South Carolina, the program helps to bridge the gap for many students, especially those who might not have access to such resources. First-generation college students are particularly targeted, ensuring they have guidance and support during their application journey.
FAQ Section
What is College Application Month?
College Application Month is an initiative designed to support students in the college application process by connecting them with advisors and college representatives.
How many students participated at South Aiken High School?
A total of 190 students registered to participate in the College Application Month event at South Aiken High School.
What kind of support is offered during College Application Month?
Support includes meetings with college advisors, accessibility to college representatives, and resources related to financial aid and scholarships.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | South Aiken High School |
| Start Date | August 27 |
| Total Participants | 190 Students |
| Events Across SC | 250 Events |
| Goal for Degree Attainment | 60% by 2030 |
| Schools Offering Fee Waivers | 35 Schools |
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Additional Resources
- WRDW: Local Seniors Get Help with College Applications
- Wikipedia: College Application
- Post and Courier: College Application Month at South Aiken High
- Google Search: College Application Month
- WJBF: South Carolina’s College Application Month Aids Thousands of Students
- Encyclopedia Britannica: College
- WFXG: South Aiken High School Holds College Fair for Seniors
- Google News: South Aiken High School College Fair
Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
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