Each summer, rising high school juniors and seniors from Hamilton County have the opportunity to participate in Camp College, a multi-day college access program designed to help students navigate the college admissions process and prepare for life after high school. PEF’s Camp College was founded to ensure all students—especially those with the greatest need—can access the vital resources, mentorship, and support necessary to successfully apply to and thrive in college.
Held at Sewanee: The University of the South, Camp College gives students a firsthand look at college life and the skills and processes used to get there. Over the course of two and a half days, students live in residence halls, eat in campus dining facilities, and engage in a series of workshops and activities led by college admissions officers, faculty, and career professionals. During their time at Camp College, students attend a college fair, write personal statements and college essays, participate in a mock admissions committee, learn about the financial aid process, develop time management and study skills, and learn how to navigate real-world college scenarios, such as dealing with homesickness or roommate conflicts. These activities are designed to make the college experience more accessible and less intimidating.
“Most of these students have never set foot on a college campus,” said Janice Neal, PEF’s Assistant Director of College and Career Success Programs and the director of Camp College. “We want to make sure they don’t just go to college, but that they thrive once they get there.” Neal leads every aspect of the program—from recruiting students and creating the curriculum to managing the logistics and post-camp support. “We want students to see themselves beyond the labels they’ve been given,” she said. “We meet them where they are and help them see what’s possible.”
More than 25 college representatives across the Southeast participate in the program, including admissions officers from Vanderbilt University, UT-Knoxville, Chattanooga State, and Centre College. These professionals lead sessions, answer questions, and give students direct feedback on application materials.
In addition to gaining knowledge, students form valuable connections with each other, mentors, and college professionals. This network continues to provide guidance and encouragement for many throughout senior year. Small group coaching sessions also focus on interview and communication skills, including practicing speeches and building confidence in professional interactions.
“I learned so much at Camp College! How to write my personal statement, what admission officers are looking for, how to find scholarships, and so much more,” said Rachel Lim, a 2025 Camp College participant.
Another student, Daniel Santana, said,
"Camp College preps you for what's to come. It gives you the college feel while surrounding you with people who want to see you succeed. I met tons of new people who are there to not only support me during camp, but also while in college. I got to engage with professionals who can really help me grow."
The impact of Camp College extends beyond the summer. Through PEF’s Community of Care initiative, students continue to receive individualized support throughout their senior year. PEF staff and camp college volunteers assist with everything from scholarship searches and application reviews to helping complete financial aid forms and making final college decisions.
Neal says the transformation that happens over just a few days is visible: “You see the spark—that moment when students begin to believe in themselves and see what’s possible.” Students that may arrive shy or uncertain leave with confidence and are ready to advocate for themselves.
Camp College is part of a broader effort to ensure equitable access to higher education in Hamilton County. Through strategic partnerships with colleges and community organizations, PEF helps students imagine a college future and actively prepare for it.
“Camp College isn’t just a summer camp,” Neal said. “It’s a launching pad. It’s where students realize they can do this and that they’re not alone.”
For more information, you can check out PEF’s website HERE!
