AVID Learners Get Insights on College Readiness from NAU Lumberjack

APACHE JUNCTION, Ariz. - Jan. 14, 2019 - PRLog -- Rather than relying on counselors, teachers or parents to learn about college life, an NAU Lumberjack visited Cactus Canyon Junior High and provided a presentation to students in student council and the AVID program (Advancement Via Individual Determination).

Brock Schroeder, a former Apache Junction High School student who graduated in 2017 in the top 10 percent of his class, presented students with an insider's view of how to get into college and be successful once they get there. Mr. Schroeder's presentation covered things to do in high school to increase success to get into college, the SAT versus the ACT, scholarships, grants and loans, choosing a major and minor, study habits, campus life, dorm life and resources.

"Students respond better to someone closer to their own age – especially regarding college life," said Lisa Schroeder, a teacher at CCJH and Brock's mother. "It worked. The students asked questions and Brock gave honest responses to the challenges college students face such as tackling procrastination, balancing homework and a busy social life, and living in a dorm room with a complete stranger."

The presentation is one of many unique approaches CCJH employs to get students interested in pursuing college, as well as AVID training to help students use reflection and questioning tactics to understand and master content on a deeper level, rather than through rote memorization.

Mr. Schroeder is a shining example of Apache Junction Unified School District and said he was happy to serve as a role model to younger students. He is currently enrolled in the Honors College at NAU and is also in the Army ROTC. He is majoring in Political Science with minors in Military Leadership and Mandarin Chinese.  While at college he attained Deans List status, has performed a short story in the Hungry Hearts Cabaret, is a member of both the Dome Repel and Color Guard Teams, and is currently the Activities Director of the Chinese Culture Club.

For more information about CCJH call 480-677-6182. For more information about AJUSD call 480-982-1110, or visit www.ajusd.org or www.facebook.com/ajusd43.