COLUMBIA, SC -- As the current school year starts winding down, many colleges are already looking ahead to next year -- and the new freshman classes they'll welcome.
Recruiting new students during this tough economy can be challenging. One particular Midlands school may have an easier time tackling that challenge than others.
"I got to sit in on a class earlier, sat in on Chapel... Yesterday, we had an adventure night playing games in the gym, so it was a lot of fun," says prospective student Victoria Rentschler.
She's among more than 70 students from all across the country at Columbia International University for "College Preview Days." Rentschler's from Ridgeway -- Faith Noriega is from California.
"I saw that CIU has a good Middle Eastern Studies major, and that's why I came here to visit."
While 70 sounds small, this turnout is a record for Columbia International. Vice-President Michael Blackwell says despite the tough economy, this is an opportunity for growth.
"It's not necessarily that unusual. We find a lot of times during recession and economic downtimes people begin to look for significance instead of success."
Manuel Beltran is here with his daughter, also from California. Even though CIU is private and difficult to finance, Beltran says that shouldn't restrict his child's education.
"I think that as parents... we should allow children to pursue their dreams, and don't let money be a deciding factor.
A worthy investment, even during tough times.
TV Station Profiles & Public Inspection Files forWACH