On Saturday, Feb. 19, members of Rancho’s Black Student Union attended the Black College Expo. The Black College Expo is a huge college event that the National College Resources Foundation puts on every year to aid Black students with getting into college. The seniors who attend this college fair have an opportunity to receive on-the-spot scholarships and early acceptances.

“For the BSU, it was important for us to attend the Black College Expo this year to provide students with the opportunity to connect with Historically Black Colleges and Universities, as well as, local colleges, and scholarship opportunities available to them,” said BSU advisor Ms. Jenna Jemison. “HBCUs provide a connection to Black history and culture, unique networking opportunities, and distinguished academics. It is a priority for the BSU to expose our students to these opportunities available to them.”

The event was held at the LA Convention Center. At the expo, 50 of the 104 historically Black Colleges and Universities were in attendance, and there were some local colleges and universities at the event as well.  

The main focus of the Black College Expo was getting Black students in college, which was successful because seniors

Bryan Garbanda, Marlee Montgomery received scholarships. Also, junior Keziah McCorvey received a scholarship of college money that they provided other juniors who applied. 

“When I found out about the scholarship I was happy and motivated more to get into colleges,” said McCorvey. “My experience at the Expo was fun.”

During this event, there were sessions put on throughout the day students could attend. For example, there was a student athlete session for students who wanted to listen to coaches talk about the student athlete process. Another session at the expo was How to Apply for FAFSA, which would help seniors in the future. 

Students not only had the opportunity to apply and look at colleges, but recruiters from the military and local municipalities including police and fire departments were there for students interested in that career path.