Elementary students skip ahead for day of college life

(Oct. 2, 2003)--Students from Storm Elementary School will take a field trip into the future Oct. 3 with a preview of college life through The University of Texas at San Antonio Roadrunner for a Day program.

In a joint effort of UTSA, the San Antonio Independent School District and USAA, elementary students from several schools will visit the UTSA Downtown Campus throughout the fall.

Pictured (top photo) are young students walking toward the Downtown Campus Frio Street Building. Students participate (lower photo) in a scavenger hunt to learn more about UTSA.

"This is a great opportunity for elementary students to start the college selection process," said Ricardo Gonzalez, director of the Office of K-16 Initiatives and Honors College, who coordinates the program.

During the campus visits, students learn about college life by participating in a mock math class, in addition to learning about time management and academic preparation.

The students wrap up their day with an interactive scavenger hunt that teaches them more about UTSA, followed by lunch.

"Our hope is that these students, along with many others from throughout Bexar County, have the opportunity to see and envision themselves in a college environment, specifically UTSA," added Gonzalez.

In September, more than 75 fifth grade students from Barkley Ruiz Elementary School spent the day as college students. De Zavala Elementary is scheduled to participate next with an Oct. 22 visit.