Juniors from Northern Garrett and Southern Garrett high schools attended Junior Preview Day at Garrett College last Friday, with approximately 110 students participating in the event.
Dr. Richard Midcap, Garrett College’s president, talked with the students about the combination of affordability and value that GC has to offer.
“There is a lot in the news about the mountains of debt that students can incur while pursuing a college degree,” said Midcap. “Thanks to the Garrett County Scholarship Program, most local students can earn an associate’s degree with little to no cost if they attend Garrett College. That’s an incredible opportunity for each of you – and your families.”
Midcap said students shouldn’t equate inexpensive with cheap.
“I’d stack up our faculty and support services with any you’ll find at any college or university,” said Midcap. “The grade-point average of our Class of 2026 was 3.32. That doesn’t happen by chance. If you come to Garrett College, you’ll be prepared for what comes next.”
Students learned about GC’s credit and workforce training programs, financial aid options, and intercollegiate athletic opportunities. They also took campus tours and interacted with the College’s faculty members.
“We were excited to welcome Garrett County Public Schools’ high school juniors to campus and provide an opportunity for them to explore the many educational and career pathways available to them at Garrett College,” said Professor Christa Bowser, GC’s chief academic officer. “Experiences like this help students make informed decisions about their futures and gain a greater understanding of opportunities available after high school.”
Donna Bittinger, GC’s director of workforce training, said she appreciated the opportunity to talk with high school students about high-paying jobs available to students who complete various workforce training programs through GC’s Continuing Education & Workforce Development (CEWD) division.
“The Junior Preview Day was a great opportunity for local students to experience all that Garrett has to offer,” said Bittinger, who noted that workforce training programs leading to an industry-recognized certification also qualify for Garrett County Scholarship Program funding. “There are so many amazing programs close to home at an affordable price.”
