Since 2016, a dynamic group of enthusiastic students from the University of Georgia have dedicated their spring break as Road Dawgs, reaching out to high school students throughout Georgia and motivating them to take the next steps in their academic paths.
Road Dawgs is just one of the numerous outreach activities orchestrated by UGA’s Office of Undergraduate Admissions. This year, nine students from UGA’s 2025 Road Dawgs team visited eight high schools in the LaGrange, South Atlanta, and Metro Atlanta regions. At each institution, the Road Dawgs relayed their experiences, showcased how to “Call the Dawgs,” and engaged with the high schoolers.
The high school attendees are the focus of the Road Dawgs initiative, which aims to assist them in contemplating and preparing for college. These visits provide an opportunity for them to connect with peers and inquire about various aspects of college life, from dormitories and courses to clubs and the experience of living in Athens.
“I anticipate making students’ days brighter,” remarked Rashawn McKelvey-Fludd, a fourth-year student majoring in advertising and a three-time participant in the Road Dawgs program. “We certainly bring in a lot of energy, and it’s wonderful to see that they can take a break from their studies to have fun while also learning about what lies ahead for them.”
The initiative continues to expand and incorporate more valuable and personalized conversations. During this visit, high school students from Luella High School and DeKalb School of Arts, who have already been accepted to UGA, enjoyed a one-on-one lunch with the Road Dawgs.
From left, Zacorey Smith, Matt Huberty, Maggie Craig, Max Baffoe-Bonnie, Chantal Clark, Kennedy Baker, Ashlyn Kingsley, and Felicia Lewis pose for a photo during the visit to the DeKalb School of Arts. (Photo courtesy of Matt Huberty)
“My aspiration for the future is to ensure that we are providing representation in places where it is essential and persistently reaching out to high schools that haven’t had a Bulldog presence in a while,” stated Matt Huberty, the Road Dawgs program director and assistant director of community-based organizations within UGA’s Office of Admissions. “I aim to be purposeful, and my objective is to cover every area.”
The Office of Undergraduate Admissions also organizes Road Dawgs: Home Edition, a series of events where current students share their UGA experiences with students from their former high schools during winter break. This past winter break, UGA students visited 17 high schools and engaged with 560 students across southern, central, and northwestern Georgia, along with Metro Atlanta, as part of this endeavor.
Inspiration flows both ways
While the Road Dawgs strive to motivate students to pursue higher education, the high school attendees also energize the Road Dawgs.
“The students reminded me of the ambition I had in high school and further encouraged me to remain driven and aim for greater achievements,” expressed Maggie Craig, a second-year student specializing in management information systems and a first-time Road Dawg. “Seeing these high school students look up to me and express interest or excitement about my journey inspires me to feel thankful for my accomplishments and acknowledge how far I’ve progressed.”
Road Dawg Madyson Hyde addresses a group of high school students at Troup County’s LaGrange High School during a breakout session. (Photo courtesy of Matt Huberty)
The initiative has a significant impact as it equips UGA students with leadership and public speaking skills while they present to large groups of students. Additionally, it influences the personal and career aspirations of the Road Dawgs as they discover more about each other’s interests and professional goals.
UGA’s Road Dawgs program is centered around building connections. It provides encouragement and support to high school students who are uncertain about their future after graduation. McKelvey-Fludd has witnessed how the program has enhanced students’ perspectives and motivated them to take steps that advance their education.
“What continually draws me back is the realization that I’m part of something larger than myself,” McKelvey-Fludd remarked.
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