In early August 2020, I was introduced to a program that is currently being offered at Daytona State College, dual enrollment. Having never heard of it, not much attention was paid to the idea. However, as a senior entering her final year of high school, I can confidently say, walking the stage with two diplomas will feel better than one.
After having the opportunity to speak with multiple dual enrollment students and advisors, I signed up for my first ever college class here at the campus. Not a single dime came out of my pocket. Many would argue that is the best part of the program.
Daytona State staff member Allan Nedorostek believes that young adults are fortunate to have this opportunity and shared some helpful advice to future or current students who may want to partake in the program as well. “Dual enrollment is an excellent option. It’s free college while in high school. And if you work hard, it’s going to pay off,” Nedorostek said. “It makes sense to dual enroll.”
So what is dual enrollment? For those who may be asking, dual enrollment is a free program that allows high school students to get a jump start on college classes, while still being enrolled in high school. These classes count for both high school and college credits. It’s a great opportunity to finish the classes required to graduate high school, as well as saving lots of money on total college cost.
Daytona State advisor Danielle Swint shared her experience with the dual enrollment program as well. “It’s really awesome,” Swint stated. “And not very many people know it starts as early as middle school, your child being able to finish the first part of their degree, and it’s all free.”
By the time I graduate in early June, I will have finished more than half of my associate’s degree. I would absolutely recommend this program to students who may want to save a little more money during college and want to get a jumpstart on their degree. It’s worth it.