Beacon Middle School AVID Students Explore College Life and Small Business Ownership

Students in the AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) Elective at Beacon Middle School are broadening their horizons through hands-on experiences in higher education and entrepreneurship this spring.

At the end of March, AVID students traveled to Kean University located in Union, New Jersey, where they explored an urban campus environment and enjoyed a meal in the university dining hall. During their visit, students engaged in meaningful conversations about college life, including topics such as financial aid, academic majors, and scholarship opportunities for out-of-state students. For many students, this trip marked their fourth college campus visit, offering a valuable comparison of campus cultures and academic offerings.

“The AVID program has allowed me to visit four different colleges, all bringing their unique characteristics with them, such as Arcadia University with its community, Kean University with its diversity, and the Naval Academy with its academics,” eighth-grade student Riley Furr said in a reflection on the experience. “AVID has changed my perspective by allowing me to find my college fit.”

Continuing their journey of discovery, on April 17, the students welcomed local artist and entrepreneur Audrey Mason, owner of Pottery Mason on Rehoboth Avenue. Mason shared her passion for crafting functional ceramics and gave students insight into the realities of small business ownership. Students had the opportunity to handle real pottery materials and even received pottery pieces as giveaways.

An especially inspiring part of Mason’s visit was her emphasis on the importance of school subjects such as mathematics and science in her daily work. Students were surprised to learn how integral these disciplines are to her creative process. She encouraged them to “follow their passions and stay curious.”

Through AVID’s enriching programming, Beacon Middle School continues to equip students with the knowledge and confidence they need to plan for successful futures—whether in college, careers, or both.