The College of Arts and Sciences and the College of Engineering and Computer Science at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga have teamed up to provide high school juniors and seniors and their families with an immersive campus experience customized for students pursuing professional careers in the health, STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) and computer science fields.
“College Quest, taking place on Friday, Oct. 18 (during Hamilton County Schools’ fall break) from 12:45-5 p.m., goes far beyond a traditional campus tour, including visiting labs, to provide prospective students with a unique opportunity to explore specific academic and career interests,” officials said.
Admission to College Quest is free, but registration is required. To register, prospective students should click here to create an account. An optional lunch will be served in the UTC University Center food court beginning at 11:30 a.m.
“This event was specifically designed to give students a real glimpse into the day-to-day experiences of students pursuing careers in the medical, engineering and science fields,” said Theresa Blackman, UTC’s associate director of health student services. “It’s a very personalized experience for both students and their families, and it’s what sets UTC apart from other universities. For students who plan to continue on to graduate or professional school in the health fields, this event provides an in-depth look at the services and benefits UTC has to offer.”
Students who participate in College Quest can take part in field trips customized to their career track of interest, including:
โข Pre-healthcare (Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Medicine, Pharmacy, Optometry, Physical Therapy/Occupational Therapy): Visit laboratories, learn about clinical opportunities, and participate in undergraduate research symposiums in Chemistry and Physics.
โข PT and OT Preparation: Visit UTC’s PT and OT programs and experience hands-on activities with current students.
โข Engineering and Computer Science: Tour labs and meet with faculty to discuss the latest innovations in the field.
โข Natural Sciences: Meet active undergraduate researchers and faculty in chemistry and physics, and gain special exposure in the fields of mathematics, biology, geology, and environmental science.
“This is my favorite event of the year,” said Eileen Hillman, director of the Student Success Center for the College of Engineering and Computer Science. “Students get exposure to multiple academic fields so they are better informed as they plan for college. It’s an exciting and extremely helpful experience for high school students hoping to enter the lucrative STEM fields and those who support them.”
While students participate in individual field trips, parents have the opportunity to engage with UTC campus leaders in Financial Aid & Scholarships, Academic Support & Advising, and UTC Career Connections to gain insight into how they can guide their studentsโ future success.
“We understand that prospective STEM majors and their parents have unique questions about lab facilities, research opportunities and support systems that aren’t always covered during typical college tours,” said Pam Riggs Jelasco, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. “This event highlights the support network STEM majors have from faculty and staff who are dedicated to their success.”
Officials said College Quest is part of UTC’s ongoing commitment to providing prospective students with specialized, hands-on experiences that will prepare them for success in their chosen fields.
“If you’re dreaming of a future in engineering or computer science, College Quest is a behind-the-scenes pass to explore the possibilities,” said Ahad Nasab, interim dean of the College of Engineering and Computer Science. “High school students considering attending college can get exclusive tours of cutting-edge labs and talk with faculty about the groundbreaking innovations happening here at UTC.”
For more information, including frequently asked questions about enrollment, visit utc.edu/enrollment-management-and-student-affairs/pre-health-professions-advising/events/college-quest-0 .