On November 2, 2024, a group of Breakthrough Atlanta’s 10th and 11th grade students embarked on a journey to explore two Tennessee universities—Vanderbilt University and Tennessee State University. The Tennessee College Road Trip was an eye-opening experience for the 24 scholars in the College Prep Program and a special moment of giving back for former Breakthrough Atlanta alum Sanai Whitmore. Now a sophomore at Tennessee State University (TSU), Sanai took charge of organizing and hosting the TSU portion of the tour, showing a glimpse of the future to the next generation of scholars.
The day began with a trip to Vanderbilt University where our high schoolers were welcomed by current students who guided them through the campus, providing an insider’s perspective on what it’s like to live and study at the college. The visit also included an informative session on the college admissions process, financial aid options, and the vibrant campus life, which was followed by lunch on campus. The opportunity to discuss the college enrollment process, college affordability, and campus life with current undergraduates gave the students a clearer understanding of what to expect at a college like Vanderbilt.
Next, the group headed to Tennessee State University, an HBCU (Historically Black College and University). This portion of the trip was especially meaningful as it was organized by Sanai Whitmore, an alum of Breakthrough Atlanta’s High School Readiness and College Prep Programs. Sanai returned to the program this past summer as a Teaching Fellow. As a current TSU student majoring in nursing, Sanai hosted and guided the students through a comprehensive tour of TSU’s campus.
Sanai opened the tour with a panel discussion led by current TSU students. After the panel, students took a tour of the TSU campus and dorms, where they were able to continue speaking with current students about their academic journeys, what resources are available to new students, and how the supportive campus environment helped them thrive.
The day concluded with a Q+A session covering a wide range of topics, including:
- School-based scholarship opportunities
- Campus and dorm life
- Academic and social organizations
- Study habits and time management
- What it’s like to be part of an HBCU community
By the end of the event, the students had not only learned about the colleges themselves but also walked away feeling inspired and more confident about their own futures.
Sanai’s involvement in this event marked a significant milestone in her journey from a high school participant to a college leader. Having herself attended a similar college tour while at Breakthrough Atlanta, she understands the profound impact these tours can have for a high school student – especially one who may be the first one in their family to attend college.
As a Toler Velissaris Scholar and BTA Summer Leadership Institute Fellow, Sanai has grown both academically and personally. Her role in organizing and hosting the Tennessee College Road Trip is a testament to the enduring effect of Breakthrough Atlanta’s programs and alumni network.
For the students who participated in the Tennessee College Road Trip, this event was more than just a visit to two universities—it was a glimpse into their potential futures, a chance to connect with college students, and a passing of the torch to the next group of young leaders.