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Weeks before the start of the fall semester, Zoe Hayes is already settling into college life at ������Ƶ.

The 18-year-old Utica resident is one of many incoming students who participated in the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) Summer Academy, designed to help students transition to college by introducing them to campus life, academic expectations and the many support services available before classes begin.

This fall, Hayes will begin the Ford ASSET program through automotive technology and turn her passion for hands-on problem-solving into a career path.

“I am excited for the opportunities ahead and to learn new things,” she said.

Although she has no previous automotive experience, Hayes earned a carpentry and masonry certificate in high school and enjoys figuring out how things work.

“I love to fix things, and this program is a chance to expand my horizons,” she said.

As she explored ways to make college affordable, EOP became an important part of her plan, along with  scholarship opportunities.

When choosing a college, Hayes said ������Ƶ stood out. “I saw a sense of community and it wasn’t too big or too small.”

The college’s emphasis on hands-on learning also appealed to her.

“I am a visual learner,” Hayes said. “If you have hands-on experience, there are always opportunities out there for you.”

The Summer Academy helped Hayes build friendships and become comfortable on campus. Peer mentors, faculty and staff helped make the transition to college feel less overwhelming while giving her the confidence to begin the semester prepared.

Hayes encourages others to take advantage of EOP. “You have more access to things and there is always somebody there for support and to help you.”

Beyond academic resources, EOP provides a community of support that helps students build confidence, navigate college life and recognize their potential for success.

For first-generation student Marcelino Vidal, an applied psychology student and EOP mentor, EOP also provides a sense of belonging and encouragement throughout his college journey.  

“Whenever I need someone to talk to, my counselor is always there. Being a first-generation student means accomplishing something that no one in my family has been able to do. It makes you feel like a whole new person,” Vidal said.

Other students said EOP has helped them find their footing, build connections and develop the skills needed to succeed in college.

“EOP taught me how to be a college student and how to navigate college life,” said Dereck Shark, an applied psychology major.  

Abbie Stroman, a horticulture major, said EOP is helping her financially, while allowing her to build connections with classmates. “I learned that it’s not that hard to change. Ask for help when you need it, extensions if you need it, because you always have resources here.”

Lilly Lavoie, a nursing student, said the Summer Academy helped her feel more prepared and confident before classes begin. “It is a pretty important program because a lot of people don’t get the opportunity to chase their dreams.” Lavoie is also participating in the Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program (CSTEP), which is helping her develop additional leadership skills.  

“Morrisville has taught me how to be structured and EOP has kept me on track academically,” said EOP peer mentor Jason St Jean, a business administration bachelor’s degree major.

EOP peer mentor Cori Vaughn, an applied psychology major, said, “Morrisville taught me to bet on myself and to never give up.”    

Luis Arroyo, a criminal justice student from Brooklyn, said, “EOP supports me. They pay for my books, help me with supplies if I need anything for my classes and they help me make sure that I’m on track for passing.”