288 Middle School Students Explore Their Futures at Mankato State University College Tours
This November, Project Success brought 288 Prairie Winds Middle School students and 23 teachers on three exciting days of hands-on, career-focused learning at Mankato State University (MSU). The immersive field trips introduced students to college life, academic opportunities, and the chance to connect directly with MSU faculty, staff, and current students. Each day offered a unique focus, sparking curiosity and inspiring students to imagine their futures beyond high school.
Day 1: Discovering the Center for Rural Behavioral HealthÂ
The first day began at MSU’s Blue Cross and Blue Shield Center for Rural Behavioral Health. Students rotated through activities designed to peak their interest in mental health careers, understand how the brain works, and learn surprising facts about emotions.
After a morning of discovery, students toured the campus, enjoyed lunch, and spent time in the “Bull Pen,” MSU’s student recreation area. From playing pool and video games to giant board games, the Bull Pen gave students a chance to relax, bond, and picture themselves as future Mavericks.
Day 2: A New Partnership with MSU Athletics
The next day featured an exciting first-time partnership with MSU Athletics. Students met with student athletes, learning about the variety of sports programs and the dedication it takes to balance academics and athletics. They toured MSU’s state-of-the-art facilities including the field house, pool, and practice gyms, and even got to have their Project Success Workshop hosted in a college classroom! Along the tour, students saw the basketball, volleyball, and swimming teams practice, adding an extra level of excitement to the tour. This behind-the-scenes look brought college athletics to life and left a lasting impression on many students.
“My favorite part was learning interesting facts about people that I don’t always get to talk to” – PS Student
Day 3: Hands-On Learning in Agriculture and Education
The final day highlighted interactive learning in Agriculture and Education. In the Agriculture Department, students learned how to propagate spider, pothos, and pillar plants which they were then able to take home. They also explored agricultural business through a Jeopardy-style game and prepared snacks in the wonderful FACS commercial kitchen.
With the Education Department, students participated in a variety of activities designed to highlight both the creativity and the problem-solving skills involved in teaching, offering a glimpse into the what a career in education might look like.
Across all three days, these trips provided students an opportunity to imagine what college could look like and see how their talents and interests can grow into future opportunities. Through hands-on activities and exploration, students returned with new insights, fresh curiosity, and a deeper understanding of the many opportunities that lie ahead.