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Participating in dual enrollment has proven to be an enriching experience for me during high school. As a student at Lake Nona High School in Orlando, I’ve had the opportunity to delve into my interests in public relations and communications while attending classes at Valencia College.
Taking college courses while in high school is not only aiding in reducing my future college expenses but has also helped me secure an after-school job at Kumon. The mentorship I received from the tutors in Valencia College’s program played a pivotal role in preparing me for my interviews, infusing me with confidence and direction.
Despite my positive experiences, I believe that the dual-enrollment programs, including the one I am a part of, have room for improvement. It would be beneficial for high schools and colleges to collaborate more closely in addressing the needs expressed by students. I have identified three significant concerns that I feel resonate with many of my classmates.
The first concern is the need for earlier awareness about dual-enrollment options, along with access to knowledgeable advisers who can assist in balancing high school responsibilities with college courses. Initially, I felt apprehensive about enrolling in a dual-enrollment program. Having advisers who can provide genuine insights about the necessary sacrifices and expectations would empower students to make informed decisions about their education paths.
Secondly, enrolling in dual-enrollment college classes required me to take Florida’s Postsecondary Education Readiness Test (PERT). As a sophomore, I had not encountered similar standardized testing like the ACT or SAT before. While I passed the math and reading portions on my first attempt, I found the writing section particularly challenging, needing to retake it several times and ultimately seeking help.
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While my family and friends were supportive during this time, they lacked access to the specific study materials I required. Although Valencia College provides PERT sample tests online, some of the materials are outdated. My high school did not offer dedicated test prep resources, and I only discovered what was necessary for the writing test through the college’s tutoring program, enabling me to finally achieve the passing score.
Although I persisted and sought out resources independently, the process would have been greatly enhanced if my high school had been more knowledgeable about the entrance exams and had provided adequate preparatory materials for students interested in dual enrollment.
Thirdly, I wish I had been informed sooner about the workings of dual enrollment, including the various benefits it offers. During my freshman year, I was encouraged to take Advanced Placement (AP) courses, but now, as a senior, I realize that pursuing dual-enrollment courses would have aligned better with my goals.
With more insight into the structure and advantages of dual enrollment earlier on, I could have addressed my preparations for college classes ahead of time. It was expected that community college courses would present greater challenges. While I anticipated a higher level of rigor from professors compared to my high school teachers, I was unprepared for the considerable time commitment it entailed amid my high school obligations. To pursue my goal of earning an associate degree by graduation, I had to reconsider my participation in extracurricular activities, such as student government, to focus more on my college coursework.
Having clearer expectations about the realities of dual enrollment would have eased my transition. Understanding the diverse choices available, from sampling a few courses to full associate degree completion, would have lessened the shock and stress associated with this significant shift.
Related: Dual enrollment has exploded. But it’s hard to tell if it’s helping more kids get a college degree
Overall, dual enrollment presents an excellent opportunity, and I am thankful for the experiences it has provided me. Expanding access to this educational pathway could yield even more benefits for students with additional support.
Listening to student perspectives, particularly those who have not yet participated in dual enrollment but are interested, can provide valuable insights into how these programs can improve.
I urge educators to consult the recent report by the Community College Research Center at Teachers College, which I contributed to. The report highlights the correlation between dual enrollment participation and higher college attendance and completion rates, while also acknowledging significant variations across different states, particularly with access and success for low-income, Black, and Hispanic students. (The Hechinger Report operates as an independent, nonprofit news organization.)
Engaging in dialogue with students, prioritizing our insights, and enhancing the dual enrollment experience can collectively lead to improved outcomes for future participants.
Teairra-Marie Gomez is a senior at Lake Nona High School in Orlando, Florida. She is on track to earn her associate degree from Valencia College through dual enrollment when she graduates this spring.
Source
hechingerreport.org