EUGENE–The University of Oregon expects more than 300 high school students of color to visit campus on Thursday Dec. 2, to sample college life as participants in "Gateway to the Future."

The deadline for registration is Friday, Nov. 19, but participants are encouraged to sign up as soon as possible.

"‘Gateway to the Future’ offers students of color and their families a day to explore the wide range of opportunities in higher education, with a special emphasis on the University of Oregon," says Patricia Lopez, assistant director of admissions.

This free annual program, sponsored by the UO Office of Admissions, introduces college-bound African-American, Asian/Pacific Islander, Chicano/Latino and Native American students from Oregon high schools to the cultural and academic atmosphere of the UO campus.

The high school students will attend interactive academic interest sessions, meet current UO students of color, faculty and staff, as well as learn more about admissions, financial aid and housing. They also will have the opportunity to tour the UO campus and its state-of-the-art facilities and to gather information about student services and activities.

Registration and a continental breakfast will start the day at 8 a.m. in the lobby of the Erb Memorial Union (EMU), 1222 E. 13th Ave.

The opening session, with a keynote address by Jose Luis Alonso, multicultural equity coordinator for Eugene’s Bethel School District, will take place from 9:30—10:15 a.m. in the EMU Ballroom. An admissions and financial aid session will follow from 10:30—11:15 a.m.

Lunch will be provided from 11:30—12:30 p.m. in the EMU Ballroom. After lunch, students will attend academic department presentations and panel discussions with college students of color.

Activities will conclude from 3—4 p.m. in the EMU Ballroom with entertainment provided by current UO students and faculty. Performing will be two students from the Gospel Ensemble as well as Native American dancers.

To register and for more information, call the UO Office of Admissions, 1 (800) BE-A-DUCK (232-3825) or visit the website at http://admissions.uoregon.edu/visit/gateway.htm.

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