College Orientation Workshop

COW Concept Create a challenging and demanding summer college program for minority students with some disadvantage, which would build on the strengths of strong students, as well as motivate marginal performers, instilling in them success oriented habits. High expectations, candid and immediate feedback, and an environment of honesty and dignity br... eeds success. Those are the foundations of COW, which are accentuated by the rigorous, spartan, and demanding environment at VMI. COW Mission To fulfill the promise of a democratic society, The College Orientation Workshop, Inc. (COW) shall dedicate itself to improve the opportunities for educational and life success for promising minority and at-risk students; to help more effectively utilize the untapped potential and wealth of talent within the minority and disadvantaged communities; and to cultivate a pool of motivated students who are eager to pursue higher learning and succeed at it. 2021 marks the 34th year of operations of the COW Program. Covid-19 prevented the conduct of the 2020 session, but will not in 2021. COW has influenced the lives of over 800 deserving young men, and scores of college students who have mentored. Over the life of the program, approximately 75% of former participants have attended college. Those who do not have attended trades schools, entered military service, or have worked in other civilian pursuits.Read More