Going to college and still in High School

By: Marisela Burgos/Eyewitness News 9 | WNCT-On Your Side
Published: February 25, 2008

It’s possible. Pitt Community College has joined with Pitt County Schools, for a program they call ‘Concurrent Enrollment’.

On Monday, representatives of the two groups met with parents for an information session. The way it works, the student enrolls in both high school and college at the same time.

“Somebody asked me how many high school students do you have in your class and I [said I] don't know,” Communication Instructor, Greg Baldwin says.

Baldwin teaches classes at Pitt Community College to both high school students and college students. High school kids get the chance to rack up college credits early. The opportunity comes with a price. High School students pay $21.80 cents in fees to take college courses that's certainly less than a college student who dishes out almost $300 for one course.

Some students say it's a glimpse of college life, while others like the independence. Although Baldwin has a number of interested High School students, he says it's not for everyone.

Baldwin says, “You have to be mature enough, you have to be able to work independently [and] some are not ready for that”.

Program coordinators say you have to be at least 16 years old. You can meet with your counselor to see if you qualify. Even if you're home-schooled, or go to a private school, you can still apply for the program.