Ogeechee Technical College (OTC) opened its doors to high school seniors in Bulloch, Evans, and Screven counties on March 4 for its first-ever High School Senior Day. The event, held at the Joseph E. Kennedy Building, aimed to give students an early start on their academic and career journeys by providing valuable insights into the resources and opportunities available at OTC.
A Day of Guidance and Opportunity
Senior Day wasn’t just about touring the campus—it was a deep dive into what OTC has to offer. Students attended breakout sessions covering essential topics like Georgia Match, financial aid, student support services, and program overviews. These sessions were designed to answer pressing questions about tuition assistance, course selection, and career paths, ensuring students left with a clearer vision of their futures.
OTC’s commitment to accessibility and affordability was a key focus. Representatives detailed the Georgia Match program, which connects students with in-state colleges based on academic eligibility. Financial aid advisors were on hand to explain the various grants and scholarships available, emphasizing that higher education doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.
Alumni Inspiration: Heather Gonzalez’s Success Story
A highlight of the day was the guest speaker, Heather Gonzalez, a proud OTC alumna and the recently named 2024-25 Bulloch County Teacher of the Year. Gonzalez shared her journey, offering students a personal and inspiring look at how OTC played a pivotal role in her success.
“More than anything, OTC gave me the confidence I needed to chase my dreams and the dreams I didn’t even know I had at the time,” Gonzalez said. “Your path does not have to look like everyone else’s to be successful.”
Her words resonated with students, many of whom are still weighing their post-high school options. Gonzalez’s story reinforced the idea that education is not a one-size-fits-all path and that local institutions like OTC can provide a strong foundation for success.
Encouraging Exploration: The Upcoming Spring Open House
OTC isn’t stopping at Senior Day. Students were invited back for the college’s Spring Open House, scheduled for Wednesday, March 5, from 5 to 7 p.m. This event will allow attendees to:
- Meet instructors and faculty members.
- Explore OTC’s various academic programs.
- Get hands-on experience with equipment and learning spaces.
The Open House will serve as an extended opportunity for students to dig deeper into what OTC has to offer, from career-focused training to transfer programs for those considering a four-year degree in the future.
Building a Future Through Local Education
The importance of events like High School Senior Day extends beyond just enrollment numbers. Community colleges and technical schools play a crucial role in workforce development, particularly in rural areas where students may not have access to a broad range of higher education institutions. By bringing high school seniors into the fold early, OTC is fostering a stronger, more prepared workforce for the region.
OTC’s Senior Day was more than an introduction to college—it was an invitation to think bigger about the future. With programs tailored to real-world job demands, financial aid support, and success stories like Heather Gonzalez’s, the event laid the groundwork for students to make informed decisions about their education and careers.
