IYT MN Brothers First College Trip: Exploring the University of Minnesota, Duluth
- Improve Your Tomorrow
- Dec 13, 2024
- 2 min read
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This fall, brothers from Park Center High School, North View Middle School, and Brooklyn Middle STEAM School embarked on an inspiring journey to the University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD). The visit provided a comprehensive introduction to college life, sparking motivation and expanding horizons for these young men of color.
The day began with a warm welcome from Chancellor Charles Nies, setting the tone for an engaging and informative experience. The brothers had the chance to connect with faculty from business, engineering, and sports medicine, students from the Multicultural Center, and Susana Pelayo-Woodward, the Director of the Office of Diversity & Inclusion.
These interactions gave the brothers a well-rounded perspective on the academic and social opportunities available at UMD, making higher education feel accessible and achievable.
A guided campus tour showcased the university’s state-of-the-art facilities, including visits to dorms that offered a glimpse into residential life. The brothers also enjoyed lunch in the dining hall, experiencing a slice of daily student life.
The highlight of the visit was attending a thrilling football game, where the brothers joined the vibrant UMD community in cheering for the Bulldogs. Adding to the excitement, the brothers received complimentary bags filled with university gear—a thoughtful gesture that made them feel welcomed as potential future Bulldogs.
For many brothers, the trip was life-changing. One participant shared,
“I didn’t think college was for me, but meeting students who look like me and hearing their stories made me realize I can do this too. My favorite part was hearing about majors I didn’t even know existed!”
This reflection underscores the importance of creating opportunities for young men to see themselves in spaces they might not have previously considered.
The visit to UMD left an indelible mark, broadening their perspectives and reinforcing the possibilities of higher education. The brothers are now eagerly anticipating the next college tour this spring as they continue to explore their potential and envision their futures.
A heartfelt thank you to the University of Minnesota, Duluth, for providing such a welcoming and impactful experience for our brothers. Together, we are building a brighter future, one campus visit at a time!
Want to Make a Difference?
If you'd like to host or support a college tour for our Minnesota program, please reach out to our Executive Director, Dr. Arthur C. Turner, at arthur@improveyourtomorrow.org
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