The Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) announced a new, system‑wide outreach effort aimed at helping high‑school students and their families explore college options across the Commonwealth. For the first time, all ten PASSHE universities will coordinate a series of campus visits, with buses transporting students who might otherwise face transportation barriers.
What the program offers
During each visit, students will receive a concise overview of the university’s academic programs, meet admissions counselors, and tour key facilities such as classrooms, labs and residence halls. Financial‑aid officers will be on hand to explain scholarship opportunities, grant eligibility and the steps needed to complete the FAFSA.
Connecting with schools
In addition to the on‑campus events, PASSHE staff will travel to local high schools and regional college fairs to provide information sessions and answer questions directly from students and parents. This dual‑approach ensures that families who cannot travel to a campus still receive personalized guidance.
First stop and future schedule
The kickoff event is scheduled for October 2 at the PennWest University campus in California, Pa. Subsequent visits will rotate through the remaining nine campuses throughout the fall semester, with additional events planned for the spring term.
Why the outreach matters
Pennsylvania’s public‑college enrollment has faced challenges in recent years, and many families cite lack of information and travel costs as major obstacles. By bringing the campus experience to students, PASSHE hopes to increase awareness of affordable, quality higher‑education pathways and ultimately boost enrollment numbers.
How to get involved
High‑school administrators and guidance counselors interested in scheduling a bus trip or arranging a school‑based presentation can visit the PASSHE website at passhe.edu for details and registration forms. The system encourages schools to register early, as space on each bus is limited.
Community response
Local educators have praised the initiative, noting that it aligns with parental‑rights to be fully informed about post‑secondary options for their children. “Providing families with direct access to campus resources helps them make wise, faith‑aligned decisions about higher education,” said a senior counselor at a participating high school.
PASSHE officials emphasized that the program is a non‑partisan effort focused on education and family empowerment, consistent with the Commonwealth’s tradition of supporting strong, faith‑centered families through accessible learning opportunities.
Original reporting: Herald-Standard – latest news for Uniontown, Pennsylvania — read the source article.
