Choosing a college where students are comfortable, happy, and can be successful is important, and Haywood County GEAR UP TN helps make college tours possible for students and parents who want more information about a particular college.

Parents of the Haywood High School 2016 graduating seniors and the Class of 2018 were invited to tour the University of Memphis campus, funded by GEAR UP, on Wednesday, December 2. Parents began their walking tour at Wilder Tower and were able to see many of the buildings on campus, including the School of Hospitality and Management, Living Learning Residence Complex, Dunn Hall, McWherter Library, and Music Building. They learned about some of the programs offered by the campus, and gained information on campus dining, living on campus, campus safety, the honors program, and special events offered for students and family members at the university. The tour concluded with a trip to the University of Memphis bookstore, where parents shopped for gifts with the university logo and mascot. Afterward, GEAR UP treated parents to a pizza buffet at Stevie B’s Pizza.

Jackie Whitten, Site Coordinator for Haywood County GEAR UP TN, said, “Participating in a college tour is a great way for parents to help their children choose a postsecondary school to attend after graduation, and Haywood County GEAR UP TN is making those tours possible for Haywood High School parents. It’s never too early to start planning for a great future. These tours are an excellent point of reference for both parents and students, when it comes time to choose a school. As always, parents are invited to tour these colleges with our program.”