Fitchburg State University’s Future Falcon Academy recently welcomed middle school students from Fitchburg and Leominster for an immersive four-day experience during school vacation that provided each student with a fun and meaningful introduction to university life.
The students participated in highly-engaging workshops in areas such as science, literature, the arts, criminal justice, health, human services, and more. Additionally, the university hosts a Future Falcon Academy All-Stars Day in the summer, which is a special event that brings back participating students for a day of fun and celebration on campus.
“The Future Falcon Academy is designed to introduce middle schoolers to the community and opportunities that Fitchburg State University offers,” said Fitchburg State University Coordinator of the Future Falcon Academy Lourdes Ramirez. “Whether it’s learning a new skill, bonding during game room fun, or speaking with our campus police and safety professionals, every activity is intentional. We want the middle school students to feel empowered to envision themselves in higher education and know that they belong here at Fitchburg State University.”
The mission is simple: Empower, inspire, and transform.
The Future Falcon Academy introduces middle schoolers to college life, while the Future Educator Academy supports high school students interested in education or people-centered careers through professional and skills development opportunities.
Fitchburg State University’s Future Falcon Academy and Future Educator Academy are innovative pipeline programs that open doors for all youth—especially English language learners—to see themselves as future college students and inspiring educators.
Through immersive on-campus experiences and mentorship rooted in culturally responsive practices, these academies empower young learners to build confidence, find community, and dream big about their futures in higher education and the classroom.
“I think the university focuses on giving students the opportunity to pursue their degrees and experience what it's like to be here, to see the benefits it offers each of us, and to explore the different programs available,” said Longsjo Middle School in Fitchburg eighth-grader Jasmin Solorzano. “This allows us to choose our career path and pursue whatever we want.
“The interests that each of us has shown have really caught our attention in the clubs, where each student uses their imagination to show others what they have to offer,” said Solorzano. “If we ever come to this university, we'll have the opportunity to create what the current students have experienced and to achieve what they have accomplished.”
Jayce Crespo, a seventh-grade student at SkyView Middle School in Leominster, said that this was his first time stepping foot on campus.
“It’s actually been really fun at Future Falcon Academy,” said Crespo. “When I walked up (to campus) I was surprised because I didn’t know there were that many buildings here and even down the street it’s still part of the university. I realized that it was huge.”
Crespo, who plays football, basketball and baseball, enjoyed seeing the Rec Center and learning more about the Falcons’ athletic teams. But he really took to Friday’s session in the Hammond Hall’s Main Lounge that was centered around how dogs support people.
“We got to learn the difference between therapy, service and emotional support animals,” said Crespo. “I love dogs.”
Crespo said that once he eventually graduates from Leominster High School, he really wants to continue his education at Fitchburg State.
“I would be really excited to go here because I heard that all the programs give students a high chance to go and become whatever they like,” said Crespo. “Some kids have become biologists, basketball stars and football stars. I feel like if I was going to go here I would feel like it would be a great opportunity for me to become something that I never thought that I would become.”