My experience as a dual enrollment student at Maryville College

I’m a senior in high school, but I spend my school days on the Maryville College campus. For the past two years, I’ve been enrolled as a dual enrollment student. The state has a grant that helps me pay for my classes. This semester, I’m taking three courses at Maryville College and one at Pellissippi State Community College. Next semester, I plan to take four more here. 

By taking college courses now, I’m earning credits towards my high school graduation, while also fulfilling requirements for college graduation. I’m also getting a taste of what it’s like to be a Maryville College student.

I’ve always enjoyed spending time on the Maryville College campus. My house is right across the street, so I grew up hiking in the college woods and attending Homecoming events with my family. 

Seed packets were made by Lauren Huffstetler for the pollinator garden. 
Photo courtesy of Lauren Huffstetler.

Now, I’m getting the chance to spend time in the classroom. My professors treat me the same as any traditional student and have made me feel welcome. They’re all passionate about their respective fields and are willing to help any way they can. 

When I’m not in class, I try to take advantage of campus activities. In the past week, I attended a documentary screening and competed in a campus-wide game of “Capture the Flag.” Last year, I participated in weekly yoga sessions and a virtual Italian baking class. 

I also got involved in the pollinator garden on campus. I used a grant that I earned through my Girl Scout Gold Award Project to purchase native, non-GMO wildflower seeds, which I share for free in a water-proof box on the garden fence.

My experiences inside and outside of the classroom have confirmed that Maryville College is where I want to spend the next four years of my academic career. 

Lauren Huffstetler stands in front of the McGill pollinator garden, which she helps maintain. 
Photo courtesy of Scott Heller.

I plan to triple major in Outdoor Studies & Tourism, Marketing and Design, with a minor in Sustainability Studies. Thanks to my dual enrollment classes, I will have my first 45 credit hours knocked out when I graduate high school this May.

While senior year is certainly stressful, with scholarship deadlines and other important to-do’s, taking dual enrollment classes at Maryville College serves as a daily reminder of the goal I’m working towards: a spot in the freshman class next fall.  

One thought on “My experience as a dual enrollment student at Maryville College

  • October 26, 2021 at 12:47 pm
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    Good luck with your very ambitious study plan! I know of people who did a double major at MC. A triple major sounds daunting. Does MC still require a “Special Study” (thesis) in your major field during your Junior and Senior years?

    Reply

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