Cherish Collier wasn't sure college was within her reach, but after attending an admissions workshop for area Girl Scouts at Xavier University on Sunday, the Madisonville teen was inspired.

        “I've really been thinking of college a lot,” said Cherish, a 15-year-old Aiken High School freshman. “High school is hard for me, and I wasn't really sure if I could make it to college. Now I really want to go. It inspired me to work harder. Sometimes I give up really quick.”

        Twenty Girl Scouts from troops at Aiken, Princeton and Greenhills high schools attended the workshop, designed for youths hesitant to pursue higher education because of finances, family history or lack of information.

        “It's a great way for them to hear about college and get themselves ready to do what they need to do to go on,” said Cathy Sher rick, assistant director of admission and workshop presenter.

        The session was part of the Cintas Team Spirit Program, which encourages students to continue their education. Cintas Corp. provides basketball tickets, food vouchers and T-shirts to organizations whose youth might not have the opportunity to experience the energy of a college campus.

        After the workshop, the Great Rivers Council Girl Scouts watched Xavier's Lady Musketeers play George Washington University in the Cintas Center.

        Nancy Koch, leader of Girl Scout Troop 1956 from Green hills, said the program was a perfect fit for the girls because they're working on their career exploration badges.

        “They need to be thinking of their careers and the future,” Ms. Koch said.

        Money and grades are big issues. Mrs. Sherrick assured the girls there are plenty of scholarships and student aid options. And, she said, even if they don't have the best grades, they shouldn't rule college out.

        The girls learned just how much doing well in high school is connected to pursuing college.

        “I didn't know high school is that big of a part of college,” said Liz Wright, a 15-year-old McAuley High School freshman from Greenhills.

        She wants to be a pediatrician and vows to work harder on her grades.

        Angie Koch, 15, a Greenhills freshman at Roger Bacon High School, learned she can decide on a major in college. Her career interests are doctor, photographer or interior designer.

        “Your grades in high school can help you get a lot of scholarships,” she said. “It makes me think about keeping up my good grades.”

Transplant families share grief, joy
Race panel's ideas move toward action
Lynch continues work with CAN, without pay
Church tangled in gambling debate
Parole violations up sharply
RADEL: Barn saved for history will make history
UC plans to study HIV patients
County will allow some to reapply for welfare
Good News: Chances many for mentors
Local Digest
Scouts learn about college
Truck driver found, admitted to hospital
You Asked For It
Arts center revitalized downtown Hamilton
New council vows to focus on economy
NKU invites look at teaching degree
Planned complex seeks retailers
Retrial opens in woman's killing
Water park gets go-ahead
Change in prevailing wage law predicted
Eyes ahead in PAC giving
Scholarship program ailing