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There’s something magical about welcoming young students to a college campus—especially when the day is filled with inspiration, discovery, and joy. At Brookdale Community College, a recent celebration co-hosted by the STEM Institute and the Center for Transformative Learning invited over 75 elementary school students from Gregory Elementary, GLC Elementary, Anastasia Elementary, and Long Branch Public Schools to experience a day designed to spark imagination and possibility.

Affectionately known as “Brookies,” the visiting students were immersed in hands-on learning across campus. The event kicked off at the Caroline Huber Holistic Wellness Center, where students explored affirmations and built a positive mindset toward math and learning.

Throughout the day, Brookdale came alive with activity:

The energy was infectious. Teachers from Long Branch were thrilled to reconnect with former students—now Brookdale faculty—and elementary staff lit up when they recognized their own former students as Brookdale ambassadors.

One young visitor summed it up perfectly:

“This was the best day ever. I can’t wait to come to college here.”

Events like these serve a greater purpose. At a time in life when students are beginning to consider who they are and who they might become, experiences like this plant powerful seeds. They allow children to imagine themselves in a college environment and to see that learning isn’t just something you do—it’s something you love.

Behind the scenes, a dedicated team made it all possible:

Brookdale’s ongoing commitment to early outreach shows that one day can make a lifelong difference. By inviting students to explore campus, meet mentors, and feel a sense of belonging, the college is helping to shape not just future scholars—but future possibilities.