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More than 150 high school seniors from across the region got a jumpstart on their futures Tuesday at Lincoln Trail College’s Senior Start Day — an event designed to blend fun with future planning.
The day began with cheers and laughter as students packed into the Zwermann Arts Center Theater for a lively round of Minute to Win It-style games and trivia. From balancing challenges to brain teasers, students were on their feet, competing and connecting with peers from other schools.
“This event is all about making the college experience feel real and exciting,” said Chris Forde, Director of Marketing and Communications for Illinois Eastern Community Colleges. “Whether they’re planning to attend LTC, head to a university, join the military, or jump straight into the workforce, we want these students to feel like their next step matters — and that it can be fun, too.”
Forde served as an emcee, guiding students through games, trivia, and a student panel that offered first-hand insight into life at LTC.
Following the games, students visited a college and career fair in the gym, where they explored booths highlighting Lincoln Trail College’s academic programs, student organizations, and support services. Faculty, staff, and student representatives from LTC and across Illinois Eastern Community Colleges were available to answer questions and share resources designed to help students navigate their next steps.
The event then split students into three breakout groups tailored to their post-graduation plans: one for students planning to attend LTC or another IECC college, another for those heading to a four-year university or a different two-year college, and a third for students entering the workforce, joining the Armed Forces, or who remain undecided. Each group took a guided campus tour, attended sessions about next steps, and had the opportunity to ask questions during a panel featuring current LTC students.
“Senior Start Day gives students a chance to explore what’s possible, and it does so in a way that’s engaging and accessible,” said Lincoln Trail College President Tona Ambrose. “It’s about meeting students where they are and helping them find a path forward — whether that’s here at LTC or beyond.”
The event wrapped up with a festive lunch served by local food trucks and an afternoon of games and activities back in the gym.
“Days like this remind us of the excitement and energy that students bring to campus,” said Ambrose. “We hope they leave today feeling informed, supported, and inspired about their future.”
