Banning High School Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) club students toured 12 college campuses and several state landmarks during a five-day field trip designed to help students prepare for the future.
Twenty-five Banning High seniors and their chaperones journeyed up the coast from Oct. 3 to 7, visiting colleges and universities that included the University of California, Santa Barbara, San José State University, the University of California, Berkeley, and California State University, Fresno. The trip allowed students to explore different campuses, get a feel for college culture and help them select a school that best aligns with their interests and talents.
“I had an amazing experience going on this trip because not only did I get to spend time with the AVID family, but I also got a look into what my future will look like,” senior and AVID vice president Isabel Muñoz said. “This trip opened my eyes and made me realize how close college is and that I should not fear my future because I will end up where I need to be. Thank everyone for generously donating to our club and our District for making this trip possible for my peers and me.”
The AVID club helped raise money for the trip through several fall fundraisers. Students were also treated with visits to California landmarks, including the Santa Cruz Wharf, San Francisco’s Pier 39, Alcatraz Island, the Golden Gate Bridge and the California State Capitol Building.
“AVID is an amazing program that provides enrichment and motivational activities which prepare students for college,” AVID coordinator Nathan Valdivia said. “If you are an aspiring college student within the District looking to build your communication and collaboration skills, the Banning High AVID program is the place for you.”
More than 50 ninth- through 12th-grade Banning High AVID students are set to attend a teambuilding event at Knott’s Berry Farm on Nov. 10, where students will have the opportunity to network with other AVID scholars from different counties.
“We are very proud of our AVID student leaders for continually supporting one another and the Banning High family to reach their goals,” Superintendent Terrence Davis said. “This club not only encourages college and career readiness but helps build confidence, create a positive impact on campus and empowers our students to strive for academic excellence. We look forward to your future successes, Broncos.”