Imagine finishing high school just a few courses away from a four-year college degree. That's the incredible reality for one recent West Clermont graduate.
Gage Sweet just walked across the stage at West Clermont's graduation this May but he's also nearly finished with his bachelor's degree in Information Technology from the University of Cincinnati. He was able to fast-track his higher education with a program called College Credit Plus or CCP.
College Credit Plus is free for students which means no cost for tuition, books, or fees if you attend public school in the state of Ohio.
“I have taken a few courses down at UC in person. Most of them have been online but a few of them I have taken down there in person. That's a great experience, being able to be around those college students and being around that type of coursework and those professors. It's been great," explained Gage Sweet.
Gage explains his motivation.
“I mean one of the big reasons I did it was was financial. I've been listening to Dave Ramsey since I was six years old. I've been I've been on the debt-free train for forever. So having an easy way to do school debt-free was a huge one for me. But at the same time I mean I've always taken advanced classes. I mean ever since an advanced class was a thing. I met elementary schools and middle schools and all that stuff and I was trying to get into them. So I've always liked the challenge and the fun.”
Gage says after he graduates with his bachelor's degree he will have a jump start on hitting the job market.
“I think my plan after I graduate is just to survey the job market and see what is the best thing out there I can get for my degree. I mean, I'm not looking to make a million dollars out the gate. I mean, I'm good with an entry-level position and good experience.”
So what does West Clermont Strong mean to Gage?
“I think the phrase West Clermont Strong means to me that West Clermont is a very strong institution to go to. I was only able to do this because West Clermont was so willing to work with me as a CCP student over time. And I know there's districts out there that won't work with students on this kind of stuff, especially at the level that West Clermont did. I've had some very good counselors in my corner who have answered very good questions. So that's what West Clermont Strong would mean to me.”
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