Mentors Sought For Summer Campers

MILWAUKEE - Eager readers in grades 6 through 8 will hit the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee campus Aug. 4-16 for the UWM Residential Reading Camp. The Pre-College Academy is seeking professional staff and faculty to interact with the students for about one hour each week.

Diane Scoma, one of the camp's coordinators, expects the mentors to discuss college life and the benefits of higher education, and their professions. The mentors also might assist campers with homework and reading.

"We think it will be a great opportunity for the students to learn more about the university from the professionals who work here, and about future career choices," says James M. Boling, Jr. "Through this mentoring, staff and faculty also can show support for our future leaders."

Students participating in the camp were required to write an essay on why they wanted to participate in the reading camp. One of the applicants wrote, "When I pick up a book that's really good, I have a hard time putting it down. I enjoy all types of reading, especially the kind that relates to learning about history. Going to the library is one of my favorite things to doI get so excited, I just wish I could sleep there sometimes."

A brief interview for students and parents also was part of the application process.

In addition to living in the Sandburg Residence Halls, the campers will participate in reading and writing classes; interactive visual art, dance and theater experiences; career and higher education exploration; sports; field trips; and leadership skills exercises.

For more information about the camp or mentoring, contact Diane Scoma at 229-3997 or diane@dsad.uwm.edu.

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