“School Days” is a powerful volunteer opportunity to support young people at a pivotal moment in their academic journey. The event brings 300 “future first-gen” 8th-grade students from Durham Public Schools to Duke University for a day of exploration, connection, and inspiration. The purpose of the event is to help Durham middle school students, who may one day be the first in their families to attend college, envision a future that includes college, whether at Duke, NCCU, Durham Technical Community College, or other institutions in the region.
Volunteers from Duke and NCCU will play a key role in creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that demonstrates college life, as the 8th graders tour Duke’s campus and residence halls; participate in fun, age-appropriate activities; and engage in informal conversations about the college experience. From sharing lunch to leading small-group explorations, volunteers help make the idea of higher education real, personal, and achievable.
Duties include:
- Partnering with a Duke student to co-lead campus exploration sessions for 8th graders
- Building rapport with the 8th graders over an informal pizza lunch
- Facilitating informal discussions with the 8th graders about college life and expectations
- Co-leading or assisting with a brief, interactive campus activity designed for 8th grader engagement (e.g., an obstacle course or exploration challenge)
Details:
- Volunteers must attend a required information session (via Zoom), complete an asynchronous training tutorial, and submit a background check prior to the event date.
- Volunteers will receive pizza lunch and a t-shirt.
- Transportation to Duke may be provided as needed.Number of Service Hours Earned: 10Contact: Dr. Yolanda Dunston, ydunston@nccu.edu
