I [Prepare for School] in the Corridor

Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in school. -Albert Einstein

The summer is winding down and kids from all ages are preparing to return to school within the next two weeks to begin another year of tests, studying, learning, and much more.  The season has been filled with incredible events such as last week's voting for the consolidation of Macon and Bibb County, the 2012 Summer Olympics; and, of course, College Hill Alliance's Second Sunday events, which take place in the evening during the summer months to avoid the record-breaking afternoon heat in Macon.

This week marks the beginning of children returning to school.  Some parents are getting their kids ready for their first year of school while other parents are preparing their seniors for their last year of secondary education.  Bibb County schools begin Monday, August 20, and the tax free weekend begins this Friday, August 10.  Get your school supplies with deals around town.  Barnes and Noble in Mercer Village has a wide selection for students of all ages to prepare them for the upcoming school year.

Mercer University students begin their classes Tuesday, August 21, but some of them moved in early this week.  Programs such as Opportunity Scholars and the Minority Mentor Program have upcoming freshmen move in a few days early to get a head start on their college experience.  Some members of Greek organizations move in this Friday, August 10, to prepare for an array of events like recruitment, fundraisers, and other unique programs.

On Monday, August 20, Mercer's Campus Life Department will host Bear Fair to inform freshmen about the hundreds of clubs, restaurants, and local businesses in Macon. The two-hour event gives on-campus clubs and off-campus businesses a chance to showcase what they offer and what they can anticipate in the upcoming year.

New Mercer Student Government Association President Mollie Davis and Vice President Joshua Lovett have big plans for this school year as well. Their Paint The Town Orange initiative plans to create a strong bond between students and the local business community by encouraging students to frequent local businesses and by having the businesses offer special discounts and post employment opportunities for students.

How are you preparing for school?  If you're done with school, stop by the University Center at Mercer University this year for volleyball games or Bear Field to watch our men's and women's soccer team.  Remember, you don't have to be a Mercer student to have school support for the Mercer Bears!