The first time Cameron Hankins heard about concurrent enrollment, he wanted in. During his junior year at De Queen High School, Cameron enrolled in a free concurrent course with Cossatot Community College. When he graduates from high school, the 18-year-old will walk away with college credit he’ll transfer to the University of Arkansas, where he plans to study criminal justice or law.

Why did you choose to do concurrent enrollment?
When I heard about the program, I immediately knew I wanted to do it. If I can go ahead and start getting credit now, I might as well. I talked to my counselor and we got on the computer and registered online.

What’s your favorite thing about the program?
I feel like I’m a step above the average student. Since I’m already starting to get credit for college classes in high school, I can use some of that space in my college schedule to see what else is out there and take some new courses. Also, tuition is free at my high school, so it’s saving my family and me money.

What are the advantages of getting concurrent credit?
It’s helping me build skills that I can use in college. I can get used to how college classes are and prepare for it as a high school student. Plus, the teacher is from my high school and he explains things on a high school level even though it’s college-level content.

What advice would you give to other high school students considering concurrent enrollment?
Do it! If you don’t, you’re going to wish you had.

ADVANTAGES
Concurrent enrollment earns you college credit in high school, saving you time and money.

COST
Tuition and textbooks are sometimes free or significantly discounted for concurrent students, making it a great way to cut down on the cost of a college degree.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Most colleges require the student be in at least ninth grade, have a specific minimum GPA, apply and gain admission to the college and have a specific minimum score from a college placement test. Sometimes, you’ll have to submit a letter from your principal or district superintendent.

HOUSING
Mom and Dad’s pad will just have to do for a little while, so enjoy the free groceries and prepared meals while you can.