WHITEVILLE, NC — Southeastern Community College (SCC) welcomed more than 400 high school juniors from across Columbus County to campus on Sept. 29 for its inaugural Junior Day, pivoting away from its 40-year-old Senior Day tradition in an effort to connect with students earlier in their decision-making process.
The event brought together 433 11th-grade students from Whiteville High School, West Columbus High School, East Columbus Jr./Sr. High School, South Columbus High School, and Columbus Christian Academy. Campus leaders redesigned the format to introduce high schoolers to academic tracks, local career pathways, and dual-enrollment opportunities through the Career & College Promise (CCP) program before they finalize post-graduation plans.
“We transitioned from Senior Day to Junior Day because we wanted to reach students earlier,” said Colene Faulk, dean of student services. “By the time students are seniors, many have already started making decisions about college, careers or entering the workforce. We wanted to connect with students during their junior year, when they still have time to explore their options and make intentional decisions about their future.”
Faulk added that SCC plans to establish a “Senior Signing Day” in the future to formally celebrate graduating seniors who officially commit to enrolling at the college.
Throughout the day, students toured facilities and participated in hands-on demonstrations across various fields, including healthcare, public safety, advanced manufacturing, technology, cosmetology, business, and university transfer tracks. Group sessions at the Williamson Library, Nesmith Student Center, and campus auditorium covered admissions, financial aid, campus life, and ways to reduce student debt by completing general education credits while still in high school.
SCC Executive Vice President Dr. Brandon Jenkins noted that shifting the timeline specifically targets students who have not yet engaged with dual-enrollment pathways.
“Moving away from Senior Day to Junior Day is a strategic move on our part to reach those students who aren’t already participating in Career and College Promise opportunities and have yet to decide their post-high school plans,” Jenkins said.
The afternoon wrapped up with a cookout, inflatable games, a dance party, and live music provided by DJ Corey Faison of C Nice Production. Whiteville High School earned the inaugural SCC Junior Day trophy for demonstrating the most school spirit.
According to college officials, the initiative yielded immediate results. CCP advisors reported that multiple high school juniors visited campus the following day to submit applications and consult with academic advisors regarding Spring 2027 course registration.
Ready to start college early? Click here to learn more about Career & College Promise at Southeastern Community College!
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