Three Austin Community College District (ACC) students were invited to a prestigious summer learning opportunity thanks to the ACC Honors Program. They’re heading to Chautauqua Institution in New York for a weeklong experience. 

The Summer Scholars at Chautauqua Program offers an immersive learning journey focused on education, culture through lectures, art exhibits, and specialized training while engaging in thoughtful conversations with national speakers, artists, and fellow scholars. The program is open exclusively to community college honors students and is designed to promote civic engagement, leadership development, and interdisciplinary learning.

One of those students is 26-year-old Mia M., a General Studies of Science major. She is working to complete her program in 2027 and plans to transfer to the University of Texas at Austin to become a pharmacist.

Learn more about her story below. 

Why did you apply for the conference?

I applied to the Summer Scholars program because I saw it as a great opportunity for me to build my social capital and network with individuals from different colleges around the U.S. and give myself more options when applying to transfer to a 4-year university.

How did you feel being selected?

I’m super grateful to have been chosen for this program. It’s so fulfilling to know my hard work and dedication are paying off, and my efforts are being recognized.

What do you hope to learn?

I hope to learn more about myself through the wonderful individuals at the Institution.

Why are opportunities like this important?

Being chosen for the Summer Scholars Program is a great opportunity because it offers valuable academic enrichment, professional development, and the chance to connect with a diverse network of driven peers and mentors. It’s a meaningful step toward achieving my goals and expanding my knowledge and experiences beyond the classroom.

What else do you want people to know?

Whether you work full time, take only online classes, or go to school part time, anything is possible when you put your mind to it! I work full time and take the majority of my classes online. I wouldn’t call myself a traditional student, and this is my second time attending college since I was 18. No matter the circumstances, it’s always worth taking a chance! I hope that my experience can encourage someone else to pursue their goals and apply for great opportunities such as the Summer Scholars program!

Tags: General Studies, Honors Program, Summer Scholars at Chautauqua Program