On Sept. 29, Washtenaw Community College's (WCC) biannual Free College Day will offer a chance for families and other visitors to experience WCC through more than 30 free classes taught by WCC faculty and staff.
Free College Day began in 2014 with the intent of allowing adults to view WCC's labs and classrooms. Since then it's grown into a family event with activities for children and options for young adults to learn about college life. At last year's Free College Day, WCC saw 500 attendees on campus.
"The community has always been so supportive of us, and it's our way of giving back through a fun and educational experience," says Susan Ferraro, WCC director of media relations.
Attendees are welcome to tour campus labs, participate in carnival activities, and take classes. The classes offered range from college financial aid to iPhone photography, and are taught by WCC faculty, staff, and community partners.
Ferraro says a new addition to WCC's nursing lab will be open to visitors on Free College Day, in addition to WCC's auto body shop and motorcycle service lab. These facilities will also feature hands-on activities for visitors, including a scavenger hunt to win a smart watch.
Outside the WCC Student Center, carnival games, a mobile escape room, face painting, drone demonstrations, and free treats will be available for attendees.
Free College Day will be held on WCC's campus from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Classes are offered in two sessions at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. and are open to all ages. Children 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required to attend a class due to limited seats.
Emily Benda is a freelance writer based in Ann Arbor. You can contact her at emily@emilybenda.com.
Photo courtesy of WCC.
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