ACTC Students and Storytellers
Transfer Fair Offers Insight and
Inspiration to Current ACTC Students
Rebecca Hemlock
The Ashland Beacon
In a world inundated with digital noise and fleeting interactions, the timeless tradition of storytelling holds a special place in our hearts. It’s a natural desire to connect with our children, grandchildren, and extended family by sharing tales from our past. Such narratives not only preserve our memories but also inspire the next generation to carve their own paths.
In an effort to harness the power of storytelling, Ashland Community and Technical College (ACTC) recently hosted its annual Transfer Fair, themed “Becoming a Storyteller,” to help students prepare for their future academic endeavors. Held twice a year during the spring and fall semesters, the Transfer Fair is organized by ACTC’s Student Support Services.
The event aims to provide students with crucial insights and personalized advice for those planning to transfer to universities after graduation. This fall, the engaging theme of storytelling infused the fair with a sense of creativity and connection, allowing students to explore their journeys while learning from the experiences of others.
The event commenced with inspiring presentations from faculty members, each sharing their unique stories and insights on working in a university setting. Their passion for education and dedication to student success resonated through their narratives, setting an uplifting tone for the days to follow.
The first day of the fair was filled with invaluable advice, motivating students to think critically about their academic goals. On the second day, the spotlight shifted to former ACTC students who returned to share their success stories. These alumni, now thriving in various career fields, captivated current students with tales of their journeys since graduation. Their inspiring narratives sparked curiosity and enthusiasm among the attendees, demonstrating the impact of perseverance and ambition.
Megan Horne, ACTC Director of Program Facilitation, Student Support Services/TRIO and Transfer Initiatives, remarked, “Through the Transfer Program Fairs, we aim to inspire and inform. The more they hear and consider future academic goals while a student at ACTC, the more realistic they become and more likely they are to come to fruition.”
The final day of the Transfer Fair introduced a diverse panel of faculty members and current students, focusing on the publishing industry and the art of sharing stories. This segment provided invaluable insights into how students can effectively share their narratives and amplify the voices of others. It encouraged attendees to recognize the potential of their own stories to inspire and assist those around them.
The Transfer Fair was not merely an event; it was a celebration of connection, creativity, and ambition. Students were encouraged to view their own experiences as powerful tools for guiding and inspiring others in their academic and professional journeys.
The event underscored the significance of storytelling as a medium for fostering community, sharing wisdom, and nurturing aspirations. As the curtain fell on this year’s Transfer Fair, the atmosphere was charged with excitement and determination. Students left the event equipped with newfound knowledge, inspiration, and a rekindled passion for their goals.
The effectiveness of the Transfer Fair lies not only in its practical advice but also in its ability to create an environment where students feel valued and heard. With themes like "Becoming a Storyteller," ACTC continues to cultivate a culture of storytelling that is sure to inspire generations for years to come. We can inspire others to create their own stories. As students at the ACTC embark on their journeys toward higher education and beyond, they carry with them the lessons learned at the Transfer Fair, ready to shape the future—one story at a time.
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