"I loved working with the Bobcat Club because I am a first generation college student and I felt like I could really connect with the middle school students. It was also wonderful to hear each individual student's inspirations and goals for his or her future, and encourage each of them to pursue their dreams."

- Camille

"It was a rewarding experience working with the middle schoolers and helping them figure out what kind of programs they can study in college based on their interests."

- Andrew

"I'm happy to have made an individual relationship with each one of the AMS students. The Bobcat Club became more than just a Friday after school program but an opportunity to catch up with these wonderful middle schoolers on a weekly basis. I saw great potential in all of them and I really do hope that this program has helped them to better identify where their futures lie."

- Alex

OU Student Volunteers from Previous Years...

"An opportunity to see great human potential."

- Abukar

"Working with the kids from the Athens Middle School was one of te most fulfilling experiences of my life. I enjoyed every moment that I spent with them, getting to know them, and was honored to be apart of this program."

- Sherica

Mentoring Policies for OU students

Each OU student involved in the College Bound Bobcat Club is a volunteer. Please be respectful of their time and be punctual in picking up your children. Some of the OU students come from other countries around the world which provides an interesting cultural experience to the middle school students. The OU students are not professional youth workers, but each has been trained by Big Brothers/Big Sisters. The Mentoring Policies can be found here:

"It is awesome to work with the kids! We all explored the diverse programs at OU and we had fun! Hopefully, I encouraged them to live their dream, but I myself was indeed encouraged by their imagination and optimism as well!"

- Alice

Prof. Julia Paxton

A native of Athens, Ohio, Julia Paxton is a Professor of Economics at Ohio University where she teaches classes related to local and international economic development. She has worked with a variety of local non-profit organizations as well as international organizations including the World Bank, the United Nations, USAID, and the U.S. Department of State. Dr. Paxton holds a doctorate in Agricultural Economics from The Ohio State University.

Teaching Awards

Presidential Teacher Award 2014-2016

University Professor 2011-2012

2013 Excellence in Education profile, Ohio Magazine

2014 Outstanding Mentor Award: Honors Tutorial College

2014 Ohio Senate Outstanding Achievement Award for Teaching