Michael
Should I enroll in an early college program?
I have been presented with the option to attend the Clarkson school in my senior year of high school, an offer that would essentially enroll me as a college student earlier than normal. I would attend the college and take college classes, in tandem with the courses required by my current school to get my high school diploma. There is also the possibility that I would be able to use this circumstance to boost my chances of attending Massachusetts Institute of Technology, my ideal college. Is it wise for me to be rushing through my scholarly career at such a rate? I may be academically prepared for such an endeavor, but is it wise for me to rush the social and/or mental aspect of said endeavor?
#college #preparing-for-college #college-admissions #earlyadmissions
3 answers
Abel Travis
Abel’s Answer
This would be a great opportunity. I'm a former Clarkson graduate, and entering college to obtain dual credits for both high school and university can be a tremendous asset to either entering Clarkson for your undergraduate degree or another university. This will allow you to not only obtain university credits earlier, but with good focus, graduate with your undergraduate degree earlier.
I would encourage you to think about your end goal. Working for the past 16 years, I always think back to my high school and university days and wish I spent more time enjoying that period. While there is no wrong answer, depending on your goals, you have your whole life to quickly finish school and enter the workforce.
Take the opportunity to get involved, get the credits, but also enjoy your young life. You wont regret it!
Susan Lisenbee
Susan’s Answer
The option of attending the Clarkson School would give allow you to complete some of the lower level courses required for your major. You would also receive double credits towards your high school and college curriculum. Unfortunately, this wasn't something I could pursue when I was in high school. I later attended college along with high school students, who were also completing some of their college courses early.
The costs of higher education will keep going up, so this is one way you will benefit by using the option of taking courses as you mentioned. You mentioned a desire to get into the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Any classes you can take will give you a stronger understanding of whichever direction you choose in technology. Once you complete your lower level courses, you'll get a clearer vision of what you want for your career. I encourage you to follow your instincts, and stay on target for where you'd like to be at the end of your educational journey.
Lisa Clay
Lisa’s Answer
Hi Michael. I took a similar path during my senior year a little over 20 years ago and my personal experience was a good one. One thing that really helped my situation was that the college classes I took also went toward the high school credits I needed, so I wasn't doing 'double' work. This was a BIG factor in my decision to pursue early college classes. Sure the courses were tough but I had good study habits, so it didn't take me significantly longer to study for those classes. That left me with enough time to maintain all of my school activities and social life. For me, the benefit was going into my Freshman year with 9-12 credit hours (I can't remember the exact number). That helped me graduate from college a semester early and cut down on my student loan debt.
There is no right or wrong answer to your question. I believe it comes down to your individual circumstances. Weigh all the pros and cons. Do you get dual credit for the classes? How many hours a week do you need for activities and being social vs. how many extra hours do you need for classes/study? In addition to increasing your chances of acceptance at MIT, what are the other benefits to you long term? If you don't do it and/or get into MIT, what would you do? Would you be happy with that? If you get into the program and it's too much, do you have an option change your mind? Be honest with yourself as you answer and trust your instincts - they know you best!
No matter what you do, it sounds like you're heading for great things! All the very best.
Thank you for your advice. I've actually already been accepted and enrolled into the aforementioned program, so I'm certain I will do it as opposed to my senior year.
Michael