Multicultural greeks Talk college in Trenton

Trenton Central High School seniors filled the school’s cafeteria as they anticipated a presentation that would prepare them for the next stage of their lives – college. On October 18, TCNJ's Multicultural Greek Council (MGC) coordinated an informative panel discussion for seniors at Trenton Central in hopes of motivate disadvantaged students to attend college.

Members of the MGC discussed the Educational Opportunity Fund Program and other scholarship opportunities available to economically disadvantaged students, and shared insights on time management, diversity, student life, budgeting, and Greek life.

“We wanted the high school students to get a real grasp of college life – that it’s something they can obtain,” said Tommie Glenn '07, president of the MGC. “We have enough manpower to make a difference, and I’m pretty sure that we changed at least one of the 300 students’ perspectives on college.”

Students were particularly interested in scholarship opportunities at colleges around the country. Devon Nelson '07, a member of Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity, provided students with background information about the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), scholarship search engines on the Internet, grants, and loans.

Wendelin Regalado '08, a member of Chi Upsilon Sigma, discussed what it feels like to be one of the few people of color in many of her classes. She also talked about the state of inner-city schools and having to play “catch-up” with better prepared students. “I have to study eight more hours for that B, but that’s what makes it more valuable to me, because of all the obstacles I have to overcome,” said Regelado.

After each presentation, students sitting patiently were invited to make a circle around the presenters for a surprise. Each presenter performed an exhibition that embodied their organization’s ideals. Some stepped, saluted, and sang about what it meant to be a member of their sorority or fraternity.

The MGC is a committee within the Inter-Greek Council, the governing body of Greek organizations on campus. It works to represent multicultural Greek organizations within the Inter-Greek Council and to coordinate community service and social events for the campus and community.