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The University of North Georgia's (̨Íåswag) Educational Talent Search (ETS) Program's annual Summer Exploratory took place during the month of June with the aim of helping underrepresented and underserved students prepare for, enroll in and graduate from institutions of higher learning.  

"Throughout the camp, we provided students with experiences to help guide them through some of the biggest decisions they will make," Dr. Theresa Spanella, ETS project director, said. "Watching them get excited about going to college has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. We learned a lot, thought a lot, laughed a lot, and had so much fun." 

The program hosted students from Gainesville High School, Gainesville Middle School West and Gainesville Middle School East. Seventh-grade and eighth-grade students were on ̨Íåswag's Gainesville Campus from June 3-7, rising ninth-grade and 10th-grade students were there from June 10-14 and rising juniors and seniors were there from June 17-21.  

The program covered several topics including financial literacy, the college admission process, financial aid and paying for college, and cultural literacy. The camp staff was made up of seven people, four of whom were affiliates from different schools or businesses.  

Affiliate Reeshemah Johnson, from Solo Professional Consulting in Savannah, Georgia, taught on day one of the program, exposing participants to new experiences, cultures and challenges. 

"I believe this camp helped the students to form lasting friendships with others from diverse backgrounds, expanding their social circle and their cultural awareness," Johnson said. 

One of the students able to participate this year was rising Gainesville High sophomore Maylin Isidro, who said attendance was the best decision she could have ever made. 

"I had fun learning about financial literacy, employment skills and college readiness," Isidro said. "I got to learn the difference between two-year and four-year colleges and learned how to find and apply to scholarships. It helped me feel more confident about going to college."