On Saturday, King’s Fork High School in Suffolk became a hub for college‑bound families from across the Hampton Roads region. The school hosted the annual Access College HBCU Expo, an event designed to give students a clear view of what historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) have to offer.
Connecting students with college resources
Representatives from several HBCUs set up tables, providing brochures, admissions information, and details about financial aid. Attendees could ask questions directly to admissions officers, learn about campus culture, and discover scholarship opportunities that can make higher education more affordable.
Why the expo matters
Adrienne Miller, an Access Advisor at King’s Fork High School, explained the expo’s purpose: “Just giving them exposure to what historically Black colleges and universities offer. They’re able to come and get information. We have scholarship information as well. We have all of our D9 representation where they offer volunteerism, mentorships, as well as their scholarships.” Miller noted that the event has been held annually since 2019 and consistently draws students eager to explore a broader range of college choices.
Scholarships and mentorship programs
Beyond admissions data, the expo highlighted a variety of scholarship programs aimed at reducing the cost of a college education. Several HBCU representatives emphasized mentorship initiatives that pair current students with high school seniors, offering guidance on everything from application essays to navigating campus life.
Community response
Parents and teachers praised the event for expanding students’ horizons. One parent remarked that the expo helped her daughter consider schools she had never heard of before, while a teacher noted that the hands‑on information could boost confidence during the college‑search process.
Looking ahead
Organizers hope that each student leaves the expo with a clearer picture of their college options and a realistic plan for financing their education. With scholarship information readily available and direct contact with HBCU staff, students are better equipped to make informed decisions about their future.
The Access College HBCU Expo continues to be a valuable resource for the Hampton Roads community, reinforcing the importance of educational choice and supporting families as they navigate the path to higher education.
Original reporting: WTKR News 3 (Scripps) – local — read the source article.
