Opinion: I’ve been an Early College Scholar since 8th grade. Here’s why Early College can be a lifeline for students like me

Framingham High School & MassBay Community College / Framingham State University via the MetroWest College Planning Collaborative

My name is Jennifer Panza and I’m currently a 10th grade Early College scholar at Framingham High School. I was offered the opportunity to join the Early College program while I was in the eighth grade. Early College has become a lifeline when it comes to thinking about my future. When I learned that Framingham High School partnered with Framingham State University to allow students like me to earn free college credits I felt a huge weight lifted off my shoulders. I knew that I would have much more support than the average student at this point in my life. Along with my Professors, I was able to work with tutors and teacher assistants throughout the program. Although I felt wary at first, I didn’t realize how much support I’d receive. To me, being an Early College scholar is more than just taking strenuous classes. 

This program has offered me an opportunity to start thinking about what I want to do for the rest of my life. For my family and I, this program is a chance for me to do something that my parents weren’t able to. I am able to get a jump start on planning for my future and career goals. For example, my parents had to rush when it was time for them to plan their futures and choose their majors. Instead of scrambling at the last minute, I am able to explore different paths before I have to make a decision. My parents fully support the program’s goals, in fact, they have personally gotten to know a lot of the staff members. They trust them as well as my decisions within the program.

There are many things I’ve gained from taking college courses. The most apparent being that as of May 2022, I have earned 21 college credits from the various courses I have taken at Massbay Community College and Framingham State University. I have also gained valuable skills, time management being one of them. Balancing high school during the day with the scholars program at night is something that has proved to be a challenge. However, through the support from the staff in the program and my own determination it has helped me to learn how to overcome a variety of obstacles. Most people say that college is a lot of work and it is super stressful, but this program has intentionally helped us to prepare for that challenge. We have gained an understanding of how to function under pressure and also how to manage and meet deadlines. This has paid off so many times when I’ve had heavy work loads from both high school and college courses simultaneously. The program also takes the time to listen to what the scholars would like to learn more about and offers support when needed. We have monthly meetings where we talk about financing because the scholars have requested it.   

Overall, this program has given me the chance to understand the importance of having a support system to guide you and have your back. In addition to this, learning how I’m able to save money and lessen the amount of debt I would accrue in college has been a relief. I truly hope more students can experience an equal amount of self-discovery and aid that I have had over these past few years.