Dual credit students graduate college and high school at the same time

Seven students representing three different high schools, as well as two homeschool programs, completed either the Associate in Science, Associate in Arts, or Associate of Applied Science degree from SKYCTC the same time they received their high school diplomas. Pictured from left are: Shannon Barrow (Homeschool), Josie Ford (Monroe County High School), Nelaya Abebrese (Franklin-Simpson High School). Jaxon Kenner (Logan County High School), Joseph Trace Gearlds (Monroe County High School), and Katie Copas (Monroe County High School. Not able to attend the SKYCTC commencement ceremony (not pictured) was Benjamin Richardson (Homeschool).

"It feels so surreal. But, when I think of all of the long nights of hard work and wanting to give up, I'm glad I persevered," says Nelaya Abebrese, one of the seven Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College (SKYCTC) dual credit students who earned an associate degree while still in high school this year. 

Seven students represented three different high schools in SKYCTC's ten-county service area, as well as two homeschool programs, completed 60 credit hours in either the Associate of Science, Associate of Arts, or Associate of Applied Science degree from SKYCTC. They plan to pursue four-year college degrees in programs such as Nursing and Business or enter the workforce. 

Six of the seven students participated in SKYCTC's commencement ceremony and their high school commencement programs.

For their time and effort, the students can rest easy knowing that they have saved significant time and money in pursuing their post-secondary education. 

In the words of Nelaya, "I decided to earn my associate's because I wanted to be able to be a step ahead to have some financial freedom and experience after I graduated high school. It gave me self-confidence that I can believe in myself and do difficult things."

SKYCTC dual credit students graduate with an average of around six college hours completed, so the graduates' accomplishment of completing at least 60 credit hours reflects the significant dedication of these students – in addition to high school academic requirements, extracurriculars and, in some cases, part-time jobs. However, graduate Benjamin Richardson shared that such a lofty goal is "NOT for everyone…a student should be fully committed to the end goal of getting a college degree before high school graduation."

Thanks to their commitment, all seven of this year's graduates have completed a college credential while remaining debt-free, becoming familiar with how to handle college successfully, and setting the stage for future success in their academic and career endeavors. 

Congratulations to all Spring 2023 SKYCTC dual credit students and, now, SKYCTC graduates:

• Nelaya Arese – Franklin-Simpson High School –Associate in Science Degree
• Joseph "Trace" Gearlds – Monroe County High School –Associate in Science Degree
• Benjamin Richardson – Homeschool – Associate in Science Degree
• Josie Ford – Monroe County High School – Associate in Arts Degree
• Katie Copas – Monroe County High School – Associate in Arts Degree
• Jaxon Kenner – Logan County High School – Associate in Arts Degree, Business Transfer track
• Shannon Barrow – Homeschool – Associate in Applied Science Degree, Business Administration