On November 20, Fillmore Middle School students listened intensely to Daniel and Tricia Gray, Alumni from the University of Notre Dame and UC Santa Barbara.. The topics included college preparation. Photo courtesy Kathryn Hawkins.

On November 20th, the Fillmore Middle School AVID program hosted Daniel and Tricia Gray, alumni from the University of Notre Dame and University of California Santa Barbara, respectively. Approximately 70 students listened as they presented topics including college preparation, choosing the right university, and some of their personal experiences at college.
Daniel, a 2006 graduate of the University of Notre Dame, shared some insights regarding his college application process. “It’s important not to let the cost of a school deter you from applying. Get accepted and find out how much financial aid would be available to you. There are a lot of scholarship opportunities which may make expensive schools more affordable than you might think.” Tricia, a 2006 graduate of the University of California Santa Barbara, shared the importance of finding the right school. “You shouldn’t choose a college based on where your friends are going. Instead, you should find the school that best fits you, based on academic programs, atmosphere, and the people. For me, UCSB was the perfect fit.” Currently, Daniel and Tricia Gray are professionals who work for the Federal Government.
Scott Carroll, one of the AVID teachers at Fillmore Middle School, is an advocate for this program and is eager for his students to hear about college from recent college graduates. “Thanks so much for taking the time to speak with our AVID students. They were very excited and really enjoyed your presentation. We really struggle to get guest speakers, so it was great for us to have two great speakers at the same time!” Heather Atwood and Scott Carroll are currently serving as co-coordinators of the AVID program at the middle school. There are currently about 100 students in the program.
“AVID” (Advancement Via Individual Determination) is a college-preparatory program where students receive academic support as well as help getting organized and staying motivated from teachers and other students. The goal is to be eligible for a four-year university when they graduate from high school. The students, who are also encouraged to enroll in honors classes, will get to visit colleges and receive tutoring from other AVID students, including some from the high school program. If you know a college graduate who would like to be a guest speaker for the AVID program please contact Scott Carroll or Heather Atwood at Fillmore Middle School.