For many high school students, the college search and admissions process is both exciting and overwhelming. Islip High School is committed to supporting students in grades nine through twelve throughout this important journey by providing early, meaningful exposure to a wide range of postsecondary opportunities.

More than 65 Islip High School students and their chaperones participated in a three-day, two-night college awareness tour of the Mid-Atlantic region. The experience included visits to several universities, including Morgan State University, American University, George Washington University, University of Maryland, College Park, and Georgetown University.

A memorable highlight of the tour was the opportunity for students to connect with an Islip High School Class of 2025 graduate currently attending American University. Hearing firsthand about her journey from Islip to college provided students with a relatable and inspiring perspective on the transition to higher education.

Beyond campus tours and information sessions, the trip offered students a rich cultural and social experience. Activities included bowling in College Park, Maryland, a visit to the International Spy Museum in Washington, D.C., and a walking tour of the National Mall. Despite frigid temperatures, students visited the Lincoln Memorial, the World War II Memorial, and the Washington Monument. Visiting the World War II Memorial on Veterans Day was especially meaningful for the group. Students also attended a University of Maryland, College Park men’s basketball game, which quickly became a favorite experience for many.

Throughout the tour, students gained insight into the college admissions process, academic expectations, student housing, financial aid, and campus life. 

“Going on the trip gave me a better understanding of what I would like to look for in education after high school," Islip freshman Tillie Ancipink said. 

 Islip senior Michael Ahern added, "The Washington D.C. college trip was a very enriching experience as it captured a wide range of historical and beautiful campuses. The colleges that we toured highlighted a wide range of safety schools, matches, and reach schools for the majority of students who attended. I believe that the trip truly sparked inspiration for students to improve academic performance in Islip High School.”

“The college trip was a valuable experience that provided our students with exposure to multiple colleges, broadening their perspectives and strengthening their college aspirations," said Dr. Sabrina Caminero,  Islip High School Dean of Students, who emphasized the value of the experience. It also offered me the opportunity to connect with our students on a deeper level and gain greater insight into their goals and future plans." 

Islip Principal Dr. Lara Gonzalez said, “It was a privilege to travel to Maryland and the D.C. area with our students. They were inquisitive, appreciative of the experience, and open to learning about the different campuses we visited."

Since the 2022–23 school year, Islip High School has expanded opportunities for students to visit college campuses both locally and beyond. In addition to regional day trips, the school has sponsored tours upstate and out of state to ensure students are exposed to a broad range of institutions. The goal remains consistent: to help students envision their futures and make informed postsecondary choices.

At a recent parent evening event, senior Jasmin Fields-Robinson, who participated in both the Boston college tour and the first Maryland/D.C. tour, reflected on the program’s impact. She shared that being able to visit campuses, eat in dining halls, and experience college environments allows students “to really see what their future could possibly look like,” adding, “I think it’s very important that we do that here at Islip.”