Sowela Technology Community College hosted its “Flying Tiger for a Day” event this week at its Morgan Smith campus in Jennings.

The event welcomed over 400 sophomores from Jeff Davis Parish to campus on Wednesday and Thursday. During their visit, students had the opportunity to explore the campus, engage with students and faculty and learn about dual enrollment and career opportunities.

“This event gives students a glimpse into our offerings and allows us to showcase dual enrollment programs for high school students, as well as post-secondary education options,” Instructional Site Coordinator Adrienne Abel said.

The dual enrollment program enables high school juniors and seniors to earn both high school and college credits, potentially jump starting their careers.

During the campus tour, students explored programs such as practical nursing (LPN), surgical technology, sterile processing, welding, industrial electrical and instrumentation. The college also offers online culinary arts and plans to expand its online offerings to include criminal justice and related fields later this year.

“Our goal is to introduce these students to the dual enrollment opportunities available while they’re still in high school and to highlight what we can offer them closer to home after graduation,” Abel said.

Jeff Davis Parish School Board Curriculum Supervisor Danielle Simien said the tenth graders will soon have to make informed decisions about their future paths, including college, vocational education and dual enrollment.

Cameron Talbot, a sophomore at Lacassine High School, aspires to become a hairstylist and open her own salon in New York. She believes the tours were beneficial for students who are still uncertain about their future.

“There are so many great ideas and opportunities here,” Talbot said. “This showed us that you don’t have to go far to attend college and achieve success.”

Koby Duhe, also a sophomore at Lacassine High School, remains undecided about his future but appreciated seeing the vocational options available to him.

Natalie Willis, another Lacassine High School sophomore, agreed that the tours provided valuable options for students to consider.