Program at LSUS encourages middle-school students to dream big, set goals

SHREVEPORT, La. ( KTAL/KMSS ) – Jaiden Harris is a middle school in Shreveport who thought he would work in the fast-food industry after high school. But lately, Harris has been thinking about other options.

Here’s why.

A seven-week summer enrichment camp at LSU in Shreveport is helping middle-school students focus on future careers in science, technology, mathematics, and engineering.

The program, called LaPrep, is free to students because of sponsors like The Community Foundation of North Louisiana, the Grayson Foundation, and SWEPCO. The summer program offers classes that are not typically found in a school setting in the Shreveport area. And it has been taking place every summer for more than three decades.

“This program has given me the confidence to apply for higher education,” Harris said as he spoke to a crowd at the 31 ^st annual LaPrep Award Ceremony.

The event took place at the LSU Shreveport theater.

Harris said he didn’t know how to dream big or set goals before the program.

“I always thought I’d work at McDonald’s. After completing my first year at LaPrep… I want to become an engineer or dermatologist.”

Harris is one of 25 middle schoolers who are in their first-year cohort. They joined 20 second-year cohort members, too.

LaPrep connects students with problem-solving skills, leadership skills, and subjects such as engineering, immunology, cyber security, and coding.

Sophie Abro is in her first year of the program, and she said she learned to apply mathematical concepts to the real world. She said the program has inspired her.

Dr. Robert Smith is the Chancellor at LSU Shreveport. He said that neither of his parents went to college, but a similar program in Pennsylvania helped him begin his career path.

“I want to challenge you not to be afraid to think big,” he told students. “Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do something.”

The program was begun in 1992 by Dr. Carlos Spaht. Since then, all 620 students who have cycled through the program have gone to college.

But as Spaht’s retirement approached, the program was paused.

Dr. Irina Ilioaea recently revived the program and says she’s part of a great team at LSU Shreveport that challenges students.

Several students were honored with special awards, including the Spirit of LaPrep award which focuses on leadership and collegiality.

Want to know more about LaPrep? Visit the LaPrep website.

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