Ferris’ Hometown Recruiters program is giving students a chance to bring college life to their local high school.
During Christmas break, students will travel back to their hometown high schools and community centers to discuss their personal college experiences.
Restaurant and food industry management major Greg Priester said the program gives high school students a chance to learn about college life.
“I feel like it’s a unique program where students get to go back home and tell their high schools what they think about Ferris,” said Priester. “They may not know all the options that are out there.”
Admissions recruiter Amber Balmer said the program was created to allow Ferris students to reconnect with their hometown community. Balmer said many high school students find choosing the right college overwhelming.
“Students can talk about their major, why they chose Ferris, how they applied for financial aid, living on campus, a registered student organization and much more,” said Balmer.
Students in the Hometown Recruiters program will earn community service hours for their time spent at their high schools. Balmer said out-of-state students are also welcomed to participate in the program.
“It gives Ferris students the opportunity to give back, and, in a way, mentor the students from their hometown high schools,” said Balmer.
Last year, approximately 50 students were involved in Hometown Recruiters. This year, Balmer said Ferris plans on increasing student involvement.
“It is a great way for Ferris to show off the success of its students and for our students to be proud of what they accomplish and to share that with others,” said Balmer.
Priester said he feels high school students will value the opinions of college students from their hometown.
“It’s important to learn from a student’s perspective,” said Priester.
Balmer said she agrees high school students enjoy learning about college from university students.
“Although students always value the opinions of adults, it’s always nice to hear it from someone who was in your shoes not so long ago,” said Balmer.
Ferris’ admissions department is also planning to make Hometown Recruiters an RSO. The RSO would be a year-long recruiting effort allowing students to create their own programs.
Students can connect to the Hometown Recruiters group on OrgSync for upcoming recruitment events and informational sessions.
For more information on Ferris’ Hometown Recruiters program, contact Amber Balmer at ext. 3961. n