By CONNIE NOLEN / Community Columnist

“There are thousands of scholarships that no one applies for,” the recruiter said.

“This news made me excited,” said PHS Junior Keeton Armstrong, “because I really want to win scholarships for college.”

On Tuesday, Sept. 22, Pelham High School hosted College and Career Night for students as recruiters from many colleges filled the hallways and gym.

“The University of South Alabama rep called me Monday night to let me know that she was coming to our college fair the next night,” said PHS Senior Catherine Landaverde.

While many of the students attending were juniors and seniors earnestly seeking scholarship possibilities, admissions requirements and academic details, many sophomores, freshmen and even middle schoolers took advantage of the fair to begin envisioning their lives after high school.

“I really enjoyed the session about the UA Early College,” said freshman Tramaine Moore. “I found out that UA Early College is for sophomores, juniors and seniors—so I have that to look forward to for next year.”

“The Savannah College of Art and Design really caught my eye,” said junior Emily Hoang. “I know more about getting scholarships than I did before. I really enjoyed College and Career Night.”

In addition to college recruiters talking with students and their parents, several sessions were held by area professionals sharing information about their daily work environments.

“The parents said that this year’s speakers gave especially awesome information,” said PHS junior and senior counselor Laura Cochran. “Having our own PHS alums here to speak about their current careers helps parents envision where their children will be soon.”

“I’m revved up after going to the ‘Potential Magazine’ presentation,” said PHS parent Debbie Vinson. “It’s been a few years since my son graduated from PHS so I needed a refresher on how parents can help with the college admission process now that my daughter Gracie is a junior.”

As PHS upperclassmen explore their futures and younger students consider their possibilities, Pelham students are fortunate to be surrounded by a community devoted to their success.