August 1, 2023
Program that introduces students to college experiences returns to ECU
East Carolina University and its College of Business once again hosted 17 high school juniors from around the state as they participated in EY’s College Mentoring for Access and Persistence (MAP) program.
EY’S College MAP is the company’s signature volunteer program in education. It is focused on empowering students in underserved high schools to gain access to college and succeed in higher education.
During the weeklong camp (July 24-28), the students met with EY and ECU volunteers who spoke about assorted topics to make applying for and going to college easier. They gained insight and knowledge on specific functions such as:
- Advising
- Disability Support Services
- Career Services
- Major/career exploration
- Admissions and recruiting
- Financial Aid and Scholarships
- Study abroad
Students also spoke with faculty and other students about campus life and the differences between high school and college.
Tajir Barnes is from Charlotte, North Carolina. He had three sisters who went to college and were able to shed light on the college experience. Barnes participated in the camp to get a feel of college life and learn more about possible programs.
“It was very interesting. I originally came here to experience what it was like to stay on a college campus. By being here, I was able to learn some things about the major that I like.”
Tajir, a track and field athlete, also had the opportunity to meet with ECU’s Track & Field Assistant Coach, Udon Cheek. “That’s something I would be interested in,” said Barnes.
Brandon Thio is a technology consultant with EY’s Financial Service Office in Charlotte. This year was the first time he volunteered at the ECU EY College Map program. He did so because he benefited from learning about college experiences from two siblings and realized others may not have the same opportunity.
“Before EY, I have been involved with multiple mentoring and volunteering activities related to STEM since 2006,” said Thio. “Once I joined EY, I wanted to give back to the community and share my experiences and perspectives. After attending a session or two at Olympic High School, I noticed how engaged the scholars were and how the EY mentors’ various perspectives helped shape their questions and broaden their knowledge. After that, I have been an active mentor of the program for more than four years.”
About this year’s camp, Thio said it “did a great job of introducing what the scholars have access to, hearing about the college experiences from currently enrolled students, and understanding different majors and opportunities available on campus.
“The camp not only shared college knowledge but allowed the scholars the opportunity to know each other and become closer.”
Kevin Williams, COB’s director of undergraduate programs, led this year’s camp. He was assisted by various COB faculty and staff who led breakout sessions and mentored students. COB and faculty included Karen Kus, Mary Beth Allen, Cal Christian, Richard O’Dor, Amy Eason, Mandy Messerli, TD Gribble, Aisha Powell, Caroline Umphlett, Drew Winters, Allison Winters, Jackson Cowsert (GA), Connor McLamb (GA), Christina Vargas, Lee Brown and Interim Dean Mike Harris.
This was the eighth year ECU hosted EY’s College MAP program. Over the years, 104 students have participated in the program on ECU’s campus. Students have represented North Carolina, Virginia and Florida.
- Categories:
- Undergraduate Programs