Students from Colonie Central High School's CISCO II and Cybersecurity classes recently visited the University at Albany's College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity ETEC building for an immersive look at their cutting-edge technology, classroom spaces, and research. 

Located on the Harriman State Office Campus, the ETEC building serves as a hub where students, faculty, and researchers collaborate on solving real world problems.

During their visit, CCHS students had the opportunity to explore the facility, create projects in the maker space, and learn about degree programs and career pathways at UAlbany.

“We have built a great relationship with them [UAlbany],” said Kristin Mesick, CCHS College and Career Planning Center coordinator. “Several of our students have been a part of classroom presentations by this group here on campus, have also visited their programs, and done internships with the faculty there. When they enroll in the program, they are able to accelerate and have made fantastic connections with their faculty.” 

The tour was led by Mason Curran, a 2025 graduate of Colonie Central High School, whose journey exemplifies the power of early college preparation. Curran pursued UAlbany's College in the High School pathway while at CCHS, allowing him to transfer credits directly to the university. This  enabled him to enter UAlbany as a junior.

Curran also participated in a CEIP internship during his senior year at CCHS, where he worked directly with the Homeland Security faculty at UAlbany. This experience made his move to the university nearly seamless and positioned him as an ideal guide for current students considering similar pathways.