Four High School Dual Credit Students Earn Associate Degrees from GCCC
[Garden City, KS] April 30, 2024 -- In a remarkable feat of academic achievement, four local high school students will graduate with associate degrees from Garden City Community College (GCCC) this year, before receiving their high school diplomas. The following students have successfully completed the requirements of GCCC's Dual Credit EDGE program, earning their associate degrees while still in high school:
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- Graham Dirks from Garden City High School
- Allisa Mead from Lakin High School
- Erica Morrison from 4-M Academy
- Sara See from Holcomb High School
The Dual Credit EDGE program, offered by GCCC, enables eligible high school students to enroll in college-level courses and accumulate credits toward their future college degree while still in high school, giving them an edge on their post-secondary education. Notably, research has consistently shown that students who engage in college-level coursework during high school exhibit greater academic momentum, take more college credits, and transition to college more smoothly, leading to higher rates of success and completion.
Dr. Ryan Ruda, President of Garden City Community College, emphasized the significance of the program, stating, "Accessibility and affordability are fundamental principles of community colleges, and the GCCC Dual Credit EDGE program embodies both. By enabling students to embark on their higher education journey earlier, we provide them with invaluable benefits such as cost savings, academic readiness, and accelerated degree completion."
Each of the graduating students has a unique story and ambitious plans for their future:
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- Graham Dirks from Garden City High School has attended GCCC for the past three years and has earned an Associate in Science (Pre-Engineering). He plans to attend Kansas State University, double majoring in Physics and Electrical Engineering, and become a Research-Based Physicist. When asked about his experience with the Dual Credit EDGE program, Graham shared, "The GCCC dual credit program impacted my educational journey by providing access to higher-level classes while in high school. These classes have allowed my education to keep up with my interests. I have a head start on college which will help as I begin my double major at KSU."
- Allisa Mead from Lakin High School has attended GCCC for the past two years and has earned an Associate in Science (Liberal Arts & Sciences). She plans to attend Washburn University to earn her bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice and become a Crime Scene Investigator (CSI). When asked about her experience with the Dual Credit EDGE program, Allisa shared, "I believe that the dual credit program was an amazing experience. I was able to do so many things that I did not think was possible, and do it with minimal debt."
- Erica Morrison from 4-M Academy has attended GCCC for the past two years and has earned an Associate in Science (Business Administration) with a Management Marketing Certificate. She plans to study Cosmetology at Hays Academy of Hair Design and plans to own her own salon in the future. When asked about her experience with the Dual Credit EDGE program, Erica shared, "The GCCC dual credit program fast-tracked my education goals by allowing me to complete my degree early. The GCCC dual credit staff and GCCC faculty made everything a very smooth process."
- Sara See from Holcomb High School has attended GCCC for the past two years and earned an Associate in Arts (Liberal Arts & Sciences). She plans to attend K-State for Visual Communication Design and become a Graphic Designer. When asked about her experience with the Dual Credit EDGE program, Sara shared, "The dual credit program could be difficult at times, especially with accelerated courses. Even with the challenges, it was worthwhile."
President Ruda commended these students for their outstanding achievements and expressed confidence in their ability to excel in their chosen paths, given the solid foundation they've gained at Garden City Community College.
GCCC offers various pathways for high school students to earn college credit, including concurrent enrollment, dual enrollment, and online enrollment. Dual credit enrollment is open to students in grades 10-12, with prerequisites ensuring academic preparedness for college-level coursework.
To enhance accessibility, GCCC provides scholarships to high schools in its service area for students taking non-technical dual credit courses. Additionally, the Buster Boost program enables high school students who qualify for free and/or reduced lunches to take non-technical courses at no cost for tuition and fees. Through the statewide Excel in CTE initiative, GCCC also offers technical courses at high school sites, often at no cost to the student.
For more information on the Dual Credit EDGE program at GCCC, students are encouraged to contact their high school counselor or Dawn Tucker, GCCC Dual Credit Coordinator, at dawn.tucker@gcccks.edu or 620-276-0441. Additional details are available on the GCCC website: https://www.gcccks.edu/admissions/student_type/dual_credit_student.aspx.
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Garden City Community College exists to produce positive contributors to the economic and social well-being of society.