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Congressman McCaul Helps Build "Bridge" for Prairie View Students

July 21, 2008

AUSTIN – Congressman Michael McCaul (R-TX 10) rolled out the college welcome mat for approximately 100 incoming freshmen getting their start at Prairie View A&M University through its summer ACCESS program. The Academy for Collegiate Excellence and Student Success (ACCESS) is a seven week program designed as a bridge into the college experience for "at-risk" students.

"You could have done a lot of things with your summer vacation, but the fact that you are here shows your dedication and commitment to your education," Rep. McCaul told the students on their visit to the state capitol in Austin. "I am confident that each one of you will excel in your college career and go on to lead rewarding, successful lives."

Congressman McCaul hosted the students for this year’s ACCESS program called "Bridge to College". It includes selecting courses, strengthening basic skills, reinforcing classroom instruction and enhancing overall student academic, personal and career development. The group will also be visiting the LBJ and Clinton Presidential Libraries after having already visited the Bush Presidential Library as part of their tour.

Prairie View A&M first introduced its ACCESS program in 1995 with two primary components: an intensive academic boot camp encompassing a tough-love theme, and a holistic, centralized series of student support services. On the first stop on their tour the students heard from a panel with various career backgrounds allowing the students to get an overview of what various professionals have done to achieve their career goals

Congressman McCaul is proud to represent Prairie View A&M University in the 10th Congressional District of Texas. The district stretches over eight counties from Austin to the western edge of Houston.