More than 200 Sparks Middle School students attended the University of Nevada Reno’s 12th annual College Day pep rally. At the assembly, University faculty and students encouraged Sparks Middle School students to get excited about going to college and become aware of their future options.

As each student entered the gymnasium, they were greeted by representatives from Nevada Athletics and cheer, as well as the University mascot. Each student was gifted a “Future Wolf Pack student” T-shirt courtesy the University’s Division of Student Services.

“It was great to hear that I can stay here and go to school here,” said Sparks Middle School eighth-grader Cleone Caravajal. “I really didn’t know about all the options available to me.  As I am planning for my future, this is good for me to think about.”

The event was opened by Sparks Middle School Principal Sarah Peterson as well as University of Nevada, Reno Interim Dean for Student Affairs Catherine Cardwell. Additional guest speakers from the University included 2023-24 Associated Students of the University of Nevada, Reno President Boris Carpio Guerra and Vice President Hannah Alquiza Students also heard from Nevada Women’s Basketball players Dymonique Maxie, Lexie Givens and Olivia Poulvaati.

“Middle school is a time of exploration, discovery and growth,” Carpio Guerra said. “It’s a time when you start to form a clearer picture of who you are and what you’re passionate about … It’s never too early to start thinking about your future and the opportunities that lie ahead. College isn’t just about getting a degree or securing a job. It’s about meeting new people, challenging yourself, discovering new passions and growing as a person.”

Principal Peterson expressed gratitude for the partnership with the University and emphasized the importance of igniting the drive to attend college among her students.

“The goal of this partnership is to reach our eighth-grade students and motivate and inspire them as they set goals for their futures,” she said. “We want all of our Sparks Middle School students to know that college is an obtainable goal."