As freshmen at Torrance High School are figuring their way through the campus, they are looking for the best advice possible for a way to make the most out of their high school education. And the best secret no one tells you in order to get ahead in college is taking dual enrollment classes. These helpful courses are offered as a partnership between Torrance High and local colleges (like El Camino Community College). The best part about taking these classes is that you earn both high school and college credits. This is a bonus for students planning to get ahead in college, as they will already have a few credits under their belt the minute they walk into college.
Why Dual Enrollment Matters
College-level classes are a unique opportunity to experience as a high school student. Taking one of these classes can save you tuition money, and the credits earned are often transferable to a lot of colleges and universities. This not only reduces the total cost of college but can shorten the time needed to get a degree. Lastly, the bonus of taking dual enrollment classes is that they can earn you a GPA boost on your high school transcript. For me, dual enrollment classes have been a lifesaver because I want to be a doctor, and to be a doctor you need more than 8 years of college. And through dual enrollment, I can get a head start on my dream.
Mrs. Jimerson says that “Like AP classes, dual enrollment offers a challenging academic experience, but there’s a key difference: with dual enrollment, you’re guaranteed college credit upon successful completion of the course without needing to pass an exam.”
Moreover, dual enrollment helps students build strong study habits, develop critical thinking skills, and better understand what will be expected in a college environment. It bridges the gap between high school and college, making the transition smoother and less daunting.
A Head Start on College Readiness
As early as freshman year, students can plan not only their high school journey but college journey as well with dual enrollment courses that can align with their career goals. Additionally, Mrs. Jimerson mentions “Tuition is free for high school students, and the credits earned through dual enrollment can transfer to UCs, CSUs, and many other institutions” making this an attractive option for students looking to reduce future college costs. When times come for students to graduate, they might have finished a lot of college courses, giving them a great advantage in college admission as well as a head start. It’s an opportunity to explore new subjects, challenge themselves, and gain a taste of college life before even leaving high school.
As you go through high school, keep an eye out for dual enrollment options—they could be one of the best decisions you make during your time at Torrance High!
