Harris County high schoolers are getting a firsthand look at college life! Nearly a dozen Fortis Academy students recently visited Lamar University in Beaumont as part of a new initiative to tour community colleges and universities across the southeast region. Campus leaders hope to inform students about various requirements and inspire them to pursue their dreams.
“We can show them campuses virtually, but it’s also good for our students to get out and see people who look like them,” Fortis Academy Counselor Nakia Lee-Francis said. “They are getting a chance to see students who look their age, learn where they come from and realize that I can go to college, it’s fun, and it’s attainable.”
The group met with university representatives, who provided insight into campus histories, traditions and activities. They explored state-of-the-art labs and facilities on the tour and met with professors who discussed class workloads. Harris County Department of Education students were engaged throughout the visit, asking questions about the enrollment process, deadlines and living in the campus dormitories.
A highlight of the tour was the opportunity to visit with Lyric Lawrence, a Lamar student who graduated from Fortis Academy in May. The freshman studying criminal justice began her college career over the summer and is successfully managing a full course load.
“When Lyric walked up and started smiling, it almost made me cry because we could see she’s enjoying college,” Fortis Principal Travita Godfrey said. “It lets our kids know that they can do anything that kids on regular campuses can, and just because they attend Fortis Academy, it doesn’t mean that things are bleak for them. It’s a fresh start where you can still reach your goals!”
Lawrence experienced great success at Fortis, including earning her high school diploma, maintaining her substance abuse sobriety and passing her Certified Nursing Assistant certification. She spoke with current students about adjusting to campus life and presented best practices for continuing their recovery journey while participating in college activities.
Fortis Academy leaders plan to expand this initiative by visiting at least one higher education institution monthly. For future tours, they are already discussing logistics with Navarro College and Blinn College representatives.
To learn more about Fortis Academy, visit hcde-texas.org/Fortis.