Aerial view of campus with Williamsport, the Susquehanna River and Bald Eagle Mountain as a backdrop

Lycoming College receives $25,000 in continued support from AT&T for high-achieving students to participate in college preparation summer program

Lycoming College receives $25,000 in continued support from AT&T for high-achieving students to participate in college preparation summer program

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Now in its fifth year, Lycoming College Prep is a pre-collegiate program that brings high-achieving, first-generation rising seniors from across the nation to Lycoming College. The program’s goal is to give students a hands-on introduction to a liberal arts education and the vibrancy of campus life. Eighteen students recently completed the two-week residential enrichment program from July 7-21, 2018.

AT&T has made this annual experience possible since 2014 through its generous gifts to Lycoming College. This year's contribution of $25,000 brought AT&T's total support of the program to $140,000.

Program applicants are accepted from school districts in Lycoming County, Pa., as well as Lycoming's partnership schools and organizations (KIPP, MOSTe, Noble, Say Yes, and Yes Prep).

"By participating in Lycoming College Prep, students will be able to enter their senior year of high school with a clearer understanding of what college life will be like. During a very full two-week schedule, they also learned new skills and earned academic credits, which will benefit them in whatever they choose to do in the future," said J. Michael Schweder, president, AT&T Mid Atlantic and Lycoming College alumnus.

"Spending time with these amazing students has become the highlight of my year. This summer was no exception," said Andrew Kilpatrick, associate dean of student success and academic services and the program's director.

Students had the opportunity to select one of two courses offered during the program, for which they earned two academic credits. Christopher Pearl, Ph.D., assistant professor of history, presented "The Historian's Witchcraft: Salem Witches Fact and Fiction," and Jeremy Ramsey, Ph.D., assistant professor of chemistry, presented "The Scientist's Beaker: Discovering the Structure and Function of Chemical Compounds."

Students also attended presentations and workshops offered by members of the faculty, staff, alumni, current students, and members of the business community. AT&T executive David Kerr presented a workshop to the students about career readiness and leadership.

In addition to learning in the classroom and gaining helpful tips for their college application process, participants enjoyed off-campus adventures such as a kayaking excursion down the Susquehanna River, a trip to Knoebel's Amusement Resort, a visit to T&D's Cats of the World, and a tour of the Little League International Headquarters. Students also completed a community service project for residents at West House Personal Care Home in Williamsport.

The students were treated to an opening banquet hosted by Lycoming College President Kent Trachte, Ph.D., and his wife, Sharon Trachte, Ph.D.