Oh, the places you'll go
- Holly Wenger
- Mar 23
- 2 min read
A visit to a college campus sparks new conversations for our 8th grade C5 Leaders
On a recent sunny day in March, our C5 Leaders in the Flint class gathered at Bridgewater State University for their final pathway weekend of the school year.
Flint year is all about learning to lead yourself. For our 8th graders, it’s the first step in a longer journey, and this weekend brought that into focus in a real way.
They spent the day getting a closer look at what could come after high school. Staff from the admissions office walked them through what the process actually looks like, from applications to campus life. There was time to explore offerings, ask questions, and start to picture themselves in a new environment.
It was a great day for this group of C5 Leaders to see a college campus up close, but it was about connecting as an individual.
Our young people spent time naming what they’re interested in, what they’re curious about, and what they enjoy doing. From there, they began to connect those interests to possible careers. They talked through the differences between certificates, degrees, and other credentials. For many, it was the first time seeing how different paths can take shape.
As the school year programming comes to a close, there’s also a sense of what’s ahead.
This summer, they will return to Camp Mitton for 25 days, this time as Lanterns, the name of the second year in the five-year C5 Leaders Program. It’s a big step. They’ll take on more responsibility, spend time in the outdoors, and continue refining the skills they’ve been practicing all year. Leadership at this stage looks like trying something new, speaking up, listening closely, and learning how to show up for others as an integral part of a team.
There’s a lot of growth and reflection as new horizons unfold. Asking questions. Trying things out. Beginning to see what’s possible.
Our young leaders are “one year in” on their five-year journey toward a future they are building for themselves, and they are excited to take the next step ahead.
Teens in the five-year C5 Leaders Program are empowered to be character-driven, community-focused, challenge-ready, college/career-bound, and committed to a better future—the 5Cs.
As always, experiences such is this pathway weekend at Bridgewater State University are made possible by the incredible support of our donors and partners in our mission to bridge the opportunity gap for Boston's youth. Would you like to support our future leaders? Make a one time donation, or become a monthly donor to support all year.
