Seventh and eighth grade GEAR UP students from Moyers Public Schools recently toured the campus of Eastern Oklahoma State College in Wilburton. Student Service Representative and VA Coordinator Colby Carpenter led the group.

The tour began in the E. E. Tourtellotte Student Center. Students then walked to the Bill H. Hill Library Building where they were greeted by Maria Martinez, Director of Library and Media Services. Martinez spoke to students about how important the library is to college life and success. She took students on a tour of the library which serves as a hub for information, technology, research and pleasurable reading.

Next, students toured Sullivan Hall which houses the math and science classes for Eastern. Microbiology and Biology Professor David Juarez spoke to students about careers in science and classes they would take if they attend Eastern.

The Mountaineer Radio Station, located in Baker Hall, was the next stop. The Mix 93.1 is the campus radio station. Eastern students have the opportunity to get real life experience in the broadcasting industry by interning at the radio station. Moyers students visited with Derek, “the Rowdy Ranger,” and saw the studio where the radio personalities produce the programming.

Students ended the tour by returning to the Student Center and having lunch at The Coal Mine.

“I really enjoy the tours given by Eastern’s staff,” said GEAR UP Education Coordinator LaDonna Baldwin. “They are always so welcoming to our GEAR UP students.”

The field trip was sponsored by Eastern Oklahoma State College GEAR UP. Participating schools take two field trips each academic year—one to tour a college or university and one that is cultural/educational in nature. In 2017, Eastern recently received a $17 million federal GEAR UP grant and will serve over 3,000 students in 39 area schools for seven years.