MBCNews - Week Highlights Value of Virginia Private Colleges

Week Highlights Value of Virginia Private Colleges

2010-07-26

Brochures, websites, and phone and e-mail conversations are helpful, but nothing compares to walking the paths, sitting in the desks, and feeling the energy of the place where you could spend the next four formative years.

Hundreds of high school students will discover the value and affordability of a private college education in the Commonwealth during Virginia Private College Week (VPCW) July 26–31. Mary Baldwin College is one of 25 institutions across the state holding tours and programs this week to introduce potential students to campus life, academic options, and the admission process. Sessions are scheduled for 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. Monday–Friday and 9 a.m. Saturday.

Mary Baldwin College, a participant in VPCW for many years, will offer student-guided campus tours, individual conversations with admissions counselors, and other specific information that tailors the visit for each attendee, said Roberta Palmer, director of admissions.

“Prospective students will also learn about the college’s Leadership Gateways designed to focus their transition to college and be encouraged to return for an overnight visit when classes are in session,” she added.

More than 70,000 students attend private colleges in Virginia, and in-state residents are eligible for up to $2,600 annually through the Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant, according to an official Virginia Private Colleges Week proclamation from Governor Bob McDonnell.

Need added incentive? Students and high school guidance counselors who visit at least three institutions during the week will receive three application fee waivers that they can use to apply to any school in the Council of Independent Colleges in Virginia — which sponsors the event — at no cost.

Prospective students can schedule a visit during VPCW or at another time at www.mbc.edu/visit or by stopping by the Office of Admissions in the Administration Building.