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Ryan M., a fourth-grader from West Haven, recently spent a day at the University of New Haven, where he and his classmates got a taste of college life.

They visited the University for its annual "Class at the Court" program, spending the morning in the classroom taking crash courses in language arts, math, and science.

"It was a lot of fun," he said. "We got to learn about the University. The campus is very big, and it was cool to visit."

��ɫAV’s young visitors later stepped out of the classroom to shoot hoops at the Beckerman Recreation Center and had lunch like Chargers, eating at The Marketplace in Bartels Hall.

"We got to learn about the University. The campus is very big, and it was cool to visit."Ryan M.

Joanne Guthrie, a social worker at Alma E. Pagels Elementary School, says the event was a terrific opportunity for the kids to experience what life can be like after high school.

"This was a great event, and it made the kids feel special," she said. "It was a wonderful way for them to experience a sense of community and volunteerism in action. ��ɫAV staff members were very supportive."

After lunch, it was the University of New Haven team that took to the court. The kids, who scored University of New Haven t-shirts and seats to the team’s game against Bentley University, cheered as the Chargers defeated nationally ranked Bentley .

"It was a pleasure working with the kids and showing them what the University has to offer," said , a strength and conditioning coach at the University. "��ɫAV is in their backyard, and it was great for them to see the campus, as well as what they can aspire to."