Posted on April 5, 2021
Lydia Hamel, Staff Writer
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.”
Allan Nedorostek, center, on the east side of the L. Gale Lemerand Student Center. Photo by Toni Duncan.
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.
Photo by Toni Duncan.
