Explore College Life
Brevard Middle School students spent the day exploring college life and future opportunities at Brevard College! Students were warmly (very warmly in fact) welcomed to Brevard College by Alexis Blanchard and her incredible team, who coordinated a walking college tour that included visiting the beautiful library, seeing a real actual dorm room (we also saw real actual college students), a delicious and nutritious lunch, and an exceptional experiential learning experience. (say that 10 times fast) Danielle Fox, GEAR UP Coordinator from Blue Ridge Community College, also joined as a special guest on her first GEAR UP College Tour—welcome, Danielle!
Led by Professor Jenny Kafsky, Head of the Outdoor Leadership & Experiential Education (OLEE) faculty, students engaged in hands-on outdoor team-building lessons about the strengths of a group and the power of coming together. Rubber chickens may have been involved—and a few laughs were guaranteed—as students learned teamwork, leadership, and how every voice matters.
Lunch on Campus
Brevard College treated students to a complimentary buffet lunch in the campus dining hall—an experience they won’t soon forget! Students displayed excellent manners, cleaned up after themselves, and even made new friends while sampling the endless options. The boys’ table kept a running tally of plates, and everyone agreed the ice cream was the clear winner. Walking 'up town' after lunch proved to be a challenge for a few who may have regretted that fourth plate, but spirits stayed high!
Downtown Economic Experience
After lunch, students walked to the Transylvania Economic Alliance, where Burton Hodges and Heather Banther hosted an interactive trivia game introducing students to economic growth, local careers, and entrepreneurship. The game quickly turned into a lively 'You get a cookie, you get a cookie!' Oprah-style moment—complete with laughter, learning, and, of course, cookies as prizes! According to Olivia Shuler, TCS Social Worker and GEAR UP supporter who joined us, the group covered just over five miles throughout the day, showing true determination and teamwork.
A Sweet Ending
The tour concluded at Rocky’s Soda Shop, where owner Jason and his amazing team, shared their personal career journeys and inspiring advice: 'You never know what path life might take you on—but don’t give up.' Students listened intently, enjoying a well-earned slushy as a sweet treat while reflecting on the day’s experiences. Sitting outside the shop in the fall sunshine, they looked every bit the part of future leaders—curious, connected, and full of potential.
Special Thanks
• Brevard College – for hosting an unforgettable day of exploration
• Professor Jenny Kafsky & OLEE Team – for leading an engaging experiential learning session
• Alexis Blanchard – for coordinating the tour, lunch, and student experience
• Transylvania Economic Alliance – for connecting education with community growth
• Rocky’s Soda Shop – for the inspiring words (and slushies!)
• Danielle Fox – for joining and supporting our growing GEAR UP team
• Olivia Shuler – for her encouragement, support, humor, and five-mile fitness tracking
• Mr. Brad Toms – for his commitment to his students and ongoing GEAR UP support
Brevard Middle School for supporting their students in ways that matter.
GEAR UP Takeaway
From teamwork lessons to real-world economics, students learned that college and career readiness begins now. They returned to school with full hearts, stronger friendships, and a better understanding of how their education connects to their future.
“Watching these students come together, care for each other, and grow through every part of the day—that’s what GEAR UP is all about.”— Angela Cannon, GEAR UP Coordinator