RVCC hosts their C.R.E.C.E.R program annually, aiming to introduce and guide Latino students through the college process. This year, students from Del Val, Somerville High School, Hunterdon Central and Franklin Middle School attended the event.

International Club students sit together in the RVCC conference room, where the majority of the event took place. Students were given things such as bags and stickers to take home after their visit. (Photo via Debra Billmann)

International Club students design their own culture tile. Students were able to color and draw things that represented their culture.

Jazmin Santiago, Del Val junior, and Diana Cruz, Del Val freshman, add their culture tile to the board. Many students chose to draw flags, foods or symbols that are meaningful to them.

Dr. Windy Paz-Amor, Director of Institutional Engagement at RVCC, gives the first speech of the event. She shared her story with the group as a first generation American, one of the main topics of the event. Afterwards, current and former students shared their own experience at RVCC.

Patsy Justiniano, Admissions Representative at RVCC, gives a presentation explaining the college admission process. She shared information about clubs, programs and resources available at the college.

Del Val juniors, Jazmin Santiago, Marelyn Agustin and Madelyn Zepeda walk to one of the cafes after the presentations. Across from the cafe, there is a collage of pictures of historical Hispanic figures.

Following the presentations, students talk with RVCC representatives about the programs available in an outdoor area. The space was set up with tables that students could go to and get pamphlets with information and resources. During this part of the event, students were able to ask any college related questions they had.

Students participating in the dance competition warm up with their partner. The dance competition consisted of two rounds as the pairs competed for first place. In the first round they danced bachata and in the second round they danced salsa. Del Val junior, Jazmin Santiago, finished in second place in the competition.

Students form a dance train, inviting everyone in the room to join in. This was not only an opportunity for students to embrace their Latino culture through music and dance, but also meet people from other schools and make connections.

Students enjoying ice cream and food at Jimmy’s, a perfect way to end the day. To conclude the trip, students bought lunch and snacks to eat as they shared their favorite moments of the event.