CHAPIN – Students from the Academy For Success were given a unique opportunity to explore different career paths, thanks to a grant providing hands-on experiences this summer.

The Building Bridges to Success six-week program was aimed at providing enrichment for 11 middle school students at the Academy for Success. Assistant Principal Trina Dickerson said the program was a great reinforcement to the career skills and opportunities students are exposed to during the school year.

“We wrote a grant with a group of professionals from our district in order to have an enrichment program for our students during the summer,” said Dickerson. “We felt we would get the maximum impact from our middle school students so we planned a comprehensive program so they would get academic enrichment and career exploration.”

The students had the opportunity to participate in eight field trips.

The students received academic enrichment at the River’s Edge Retreat Monday through Wednesday. Thursdays were spent exploring different careers featured through the field trips.

During the Columbia Fire Department and Challenger Learning Center tour, students were introduced to careers related to firefighting as well as Space and flight. The students toured a fire house, learned about the different types of fire trucks and equipment and then spent the afternoon building and testing their own rocket.

Dickerson said the field trips have been eye opening for her students because they get to hear the personal stories of professionals.

“We’ve been very fortunate that our presenters have shared their personal stories so the students can see themselves in that role.”

She added that they want the students to enjoy these experiences, but know they are being prepared for success. “Whatever the career strand they choose, they are getting the skills they need... so they can be successful in any career choice.”