Civil Rights and College Tour, Atlanta Georgia
Exploring the Legacy
Choices Mentoring Initiative embarked on a transformative journey to explore the rich tapestry of Civil Rights history and educational opportunities in Atlanta, Georgia from 4/20/2024 through 4/25/2024.
This project was supported by a generous grant from the Pittsfield Education Enrichment Fund of the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, alongside invaluable contributions from our supporters, and donors.
Civil Rights
As designed by Choices Mentoring Initiative, visiting the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Site would offer mentees a profound insight into the Civil Rights Movement.
Stepping into the footsteps of Dr. King, they will be immersed in the powerful narrative of courage, resilience, and hope and witness the humble beginnings of a leader who sparked a revolution with his unwavering commitment to justice and equality.
The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Site becomes a living testament to the ongoing struggle for equality, inspiring teenagers to become agents of change in their communities.
College Tour
An admission and college tour of the Georgia Institute of Technology provides mentees interested in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields with invaluable insights and inspiration.
As the Choices Mentoring Initiative mentees walk through the bustling campus, they are exposed to cutting-edge research facilities, state-of-the-art laboratories, and innovative learning environments.
The experience not only demystifies the college application process but also ignites a sense of curiosity and ambition, empowering mentees to envision a future enriched by their contributions to the ever-evolving science and technology landscape.
Reflection: Day One
The journey began in the heart of Pittsfield, MA, the night of Saturday, April 20th, 2024, as our eager group of mentees and mentors gathered, filled with anticipation for the experiences ahead. From there, we embarked on a road trip to Newark Airport, New Jersey, where we would catch our flight to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the gateway to our destination.
As we waited at Newark Airport, the excitement was palpable. Mentees snapped pictures, capturing moments of anticipation and camaraderie. One particularly memorable snapshot captured a mentee in the cockpit, sharing a moment with a United Airlines pilot, a symbol of the heights to which our aspirations can soar.
Upon our arrival in Atlanta, we were greeted by the warmth of Southern hospitality and the iconic sights of the city's bustling airport. Atlanta Police Officers welcomed us, a reassuring reminder of the community's support for our journey.
Reflection: Day Two
On Day 2 of the Choices Mentoring Initiative Civil Rights and College Tour, Atlanta, Georgia, mentees embraced relaxation and physical activity as they prepared for the enlightening visit to the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Site scheduled for the following day.
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As mentees stretched their muscles and cleared their minds, they bonded over shared experiences and aspirations. Following the workout, the group indulged in moments of leisure, taking time to unwind and reflect on their journey thus far.
Choices Mentoring Initiative facilitated seamless logistics by arranging for a van to be delivered to the hotel, ensuring a smooth and comfortable transition to the next chapter of their educational exploration.
Reflection: Day Three
The Choices Mentoring Initiative mentors and mentees’ day commenced at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, where the very essence of Dr. King’s vision and legacy permeated the atmosphere with sights and sounds of the Civil Rights past with a vision of the future -​
Mahatma Gandhi statue,
Ebenezer Baptist Church,
Martin Luther King Jr’s home,
The final resting place of Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King,
Walking through the Freedom Road Walkway,
The Dream Center (a beacon of hope) empowerment, and more.​
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As we concluded our day at the Martin Luther King Jr. Historical Park, the mentors and mentees were filled with gratitude and humility.
Reflection: Day Four
On Day Four of the Choices Mentoring Initiative Civil Rights and College Tour, Atlanta, Georgia, our journey brought us to The Georgia Institute of Technology. This day was a testament to the power of education and the legacy of civil rights, intertwining the past, present, and future profoundly.
Our day began at the John Lewis Student Center, a space named after the legendary civil rights leader whose legacy continues to inspire generations. Following the admission session, the college tour unfolded, offering a firsthand glimpse into campus life at one of the nation’s leading technological institutions.
Mentees walked in the footsteps of the first three trailblazing African American scholars, envisioning themselves as the architects of tomorrow’s advancements. As the sun sets on Day 4, each step we take will honor the legacies of the past while forging a brighter future for generations to come.
