Career exploration with a fun twist

Deaf and hard-of-hearing African-American, Latino American, or (Native) American Indian students who are entering 7th, 8th, or 9th grade can attend Steps to Success, a career-exploration mini-camp being held August 4 to 6 at Rochester Institute of Technology.

Through hands-on activities and information sessions, students can explore career options––using computers, working with robots, doing science experiments in labs, and more. They also can make new friends to share experiences with as they finish high school and make decisions about what to do after graduation.

Students stay in a college residence hall, and all meals are provided. Parents or guardians are encouraged to attend and can get tips to support their student through this time of transition, and to share experiences and information with other parents of deaf or hard-of-hearing students.

The cost is $50, and limited scholarships are available based on financial need. Experienced counselors and instructors use both English and sign language. Steps to Success is certified by the New York State Health Department.

To apply online, go to www.rit.edu/NTID/StepsToSuccessNR. For more information, call 585-475-6723 (TTY/voice) or E-mail StepToSuccess@ntid.rit.edu. The application deadline is May 31.

Dateline: April 14, 2006