Dual Enrollment (DE) courses allow students to earn college credits before they graduate from high school. Frederick Community College (FCC) offers a variety of dual enrollment options in partnership with Frederick County Public Schools (FCPS). Your goals determine which option is best for you. Please contact your school counselor for more information on each program or to enroll. If you are a home or private school student, please contact a Dual Enrollment Coordinator for more information.

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Take select Frederick Community College (FCC) courses at your Frederick County Public Schools (FCPS) high school or at the Career and Technology Center (CTC). Earn your high school diploma and college credits from FCC simultaneously.

High school students in this program take FCC courses at their high school during the regular school day. These are college level, credit-bearing courses taught by FCPS teachers. Available courses vary by school; talk to your counselor to see what is offered at your FCPS high school. High School Based courses are free for all FCPS students.

 

           

 

What is Dual Enrollment: High School Based?

High School Based refers to high school students taking FCC courses at their high school or the CTC during the regular school day.

How do I qualify for a High School Based FCC course?

Currently enrolled FCPS high school students who are college and career ready and have an unweighted cumulative GPA of 2.0 may consider dual enrollment. Assessment scores (SAT, ACT, Accuplacer, MCAP, and more), FCPS final course grades, and/or unweighted GPA may determine college and career readiness. Scores required to enroll in college level, credit-bearing courses are listed in the chart at the bottom of this site

What High School Based courses are offered at my high school?

High School Based courses vary from school to school depending on the school size, staffing, and student interest. Talk to your counselor to see what is available at your FCPS high school.

How do I enroll in the High School Based Dual Enrollment program?

  1. Complete an FCPS Dual Enrollment Participation Form provided by your high school and ensure all paperwork is signed by the student, parent(s), and school staff.
  2. Complete the online application for the College.
  3. Determine the need for placement testing:
    1. If exempt from placement testing, submit proof of the exemption to the point of contact at the high school.
    2. If not exempt, sit for the ACCUPLACER to determine college readiness.
  4. Students will be notified of assessment results and college ready status.
  5. High School Based dually enrolled students are not responsible for registering for classes. Registration is completed collaboratively by FCPS and FCC staff.

How much does a High School Based course cost?

High School Based students receive free tuition at FCC for all courses. There are no fees or textbooks costs for High School Based courses.

Who teaches the FCC High School Based courses?

High School Based courses are taught by FCPS teachers from your high school. These teachers are hired by FCC to teach college courses and are held to the same hiring and credentialing standards as adjunct professors.

What is the difference between college credit and dual credit?

College credit is awarded upon successful completion of the college course(s). This credit is reflected on the college transcript. Dual credit means that both high school credit and college credit can be earned upon successful completion of a college course.

Dual credit is awarded to high school students if the college course meets the curriculum requirements of an approved FCPS high school course. Dual credit is reflected on both the high school transcript and the college transcript.

Can a parent/guardian monitor their student’s progress in the college course?

Family Educational Rights Privacy Act (FERPA) applies to all students enrolled in college courses, despite the age of the student.

Therefore, communication is only between the student and the college. Students are responsible for monitoring their educational progress through their FCC student account and communication with their instructors. A FERPA waiver is available for students as a way to provide parents the right to communicate with FCC.

Are Dual Enrollment final course grades weighted on my high school transcript?

Yes, grades earned in Dual Enrollment courses (including High School Based, Open Campus, and Early College) count as weighted grades in your high school GPA, but only for courses for which you elect to receive dual credit.  

What FCC resources are available to students if they are dually enrolled?

A dually enrolled high school student can access all resources available to FCC students (Learning Commons; free tutoring at the Tutoring Center, Writing Center, and STEM Learning Center; Disability Access Services, online databases; online Writing Center).
 

Does FCC provide accommodations for FCPS students with an IEP or 504 plan?

Dually enrolled students, including both open campus and high school based students, seeking disability accommodations for FCC courses must request services through the FCC Disability Access Services (DAS)Office.

Reasonable accommodations for post-secondary classes are offered to eligible students based on a formal initiation of services request and submission of appropriate disability documentation. Students are required to meet with a disabilities specialist for an intake appointment. This appointment may be scheduled by calling 301.846.2408 or emailing Disability Access Services (DAS). More information about disability services is available here.

Take select FCC courses at FCC or online. Earn your high school diploma and college credits from FCC simultaneously.

High school students in this program take college courses on the FCC campus or online during the day or in the evening. These are college level, credit-bearing courses.  FCPS Open Campus students receive free tuition and fees at FCC for all courses. FCPS students participating in Open Campus may obtain required textbooks and materials at the FCC bookstore at no cost to the student. 

Homeschool and private school students participating in Open Campus receive a 25% discount on tuition and must pay for fees and textbooks.

 

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What is Dual Enrollment: Open Campus?

Open Campus refers to high school students taking college courses on the FCC campus or through the online program at FCC. Courses may be taken on campus during the school day or in the evening.

How do I qualify to take a college course on the FCC campus?

Currently enrolled Frederick County high school students who are college and career ready and have an unweighted cumulative GPA of 2.0 may consider dual enrollment. Assessment scores (SAT, ACT, Accuplacer, MCAP, and more), FCPS final course grades, and/or unweighted GPA may determine college and career readiness. Scores required to enroll in college level, credit-bearing courses are listed in the chart at the bottom of this site.

How do I enroll in the Open Campus program?

Steps for Dual Enrollment Students:
  1. Complete an FCPS Dual Enrollment Participation Form provided by your high school and ensure all paperwork is signed by the student, parent(s), and school staff.
  2. Complete the online application for the College. Once the FCC student identification number is received, determine the need for placement testing:
    1. If exempt from placement testing, submit proof of the exemption to FCC.
    2. If not exempt, sit for the ACCUPLACER to determine college readiness.
  3. Create password to log in to FCC accounts
  4. Complete Online Orientation
    All Open Campus Dual Enrollment students are required to complete our comprehensive online orientation.

    Start Orientation
  5. Complete advising:
    1. Speak with your high school counselor about dual credit opportunities.
    2. If needed, meet with an FCC academic advisor to select the college course(s).
  6. Complete registration for the college course(s). This can be completed online or at Registration & Records at FCC.
  7. Your Dual Enrollment waiver for tuition and fees will automatically be applied to your account within a week of registering for your class(es). Courses taken during the summer are NOT eligible for free tuition and fees.
  8. Pay for your course fees by the appropriate Drop Zone deadline.
  9. Purchase textbooks. Students in open campus may obtain required textbooks and materials at the FCC bookstore at no cost to the student. Students wishing to retain or write in their books and materials may purchase required materials for their own use.
  10. Attend course(s).
NOTE: If you are a student under the age of 16, you must follow the steps for Students Under 16 Years of Age Advising. Under 16 Advising (green button for this link)


Steps to Enroll for Homeschool/Private school students:
  1. Complete the online application for the College. Once the FCC student identification number is received, determine the need for placement testing:
    1. If exempt from placement testing, submit proof of the exemption to FCC.
    2. If not exempt, sit for the ACCUPLACER to determine college readiness.
  2. Complete Online Orientation
    All Open Campus Dual Enrollment students are required to complete our comprehensive online orientation.

    Start Orientation
  3. Complete advising:
    1. Meet with an FCC academic advisor to select the college course(s).
  4. Complete registration for the college course(s). This can be completed online or at Registration & Records at FCC.
  5. Complete and submit the Homeschool/Private school tuition discount form and submit it to the Student Accounts Office.
  6. Pay for your course(s) by the appropriate Drop Zone deadline.
  7. Purchase textbooks.
  8. Attend course(s).

How much does an Open Campus course cost?

  • Tuition and fees are free for all FCPS students during the Fall and Spring semesters. Students must pay full tuition prices during the summer semester.

Is transportation provided for Open Campus courses?

No. Students are responsible for providing their own transportation for Open Campus courses.

What is the difference between college credit and dual credit?

College credit is awarded upon successful completion of the college course(s). This credit is reflected on the college transcript. Dual credit means that both high school credit and college credit can be earned upon successful completion of a college course.

Dual credit is awarded to high school students if the college course meets the curriculum requirements of an approved FCPS high school course. Dual credit is reflected on both the high school transcript and the college transcript.

Can a parent/guardian monitor their student’s progress in the college course?

Family Educational Rights Privacy Act (FERPA) applies to all students enrolled in college courses, despite the age of the student.

Therefore, communication is only between the student and the college. Students are responsible for monitoring their educational progress through their FCC student account and communication with their instructors. A FERPA waiver is available for students as a way to provide parents the right to communicate with FCC.

Are Dual Enrollment final course grades weighted on my high school transcript?

Yes, grades earned in Dual Enrollment courses (including High School Based, Open Campus, and Early College) count as weighted grades in your high school GPA, but only for courses for which you elect to receive dual credit.  

What FCC resources are available to students if they are dually enrolled?

A dually enrolled high school student can access all resources available to FCC students (Learning Commons; free tutoring at the Tutoring Center, Writing Center, and STEM Learning Center; Disability Access Services, online databases; online Writing Center).

Does FCC provide accommodations for FCPS students with an IEP or 504 plan?

Dually enrolled students, including both open campus and high school based students, seeking disability accommodations for FCC courses must request services through the FCC Disability Access Services (DAS)Office.

Reasonable accommodations for post-secondary classes are offered to eligible students based on a formal initiation of services request and submission of appropriate disability documentation. Students are required to meet with a disabilities specialist for an intake appointment. This appointment may be scheduled by calling 301.846.2408 or emailing Disability Access Services (DAS). More information about disability services is available here.

Take select FCC courses in a specific career track at your FCPS high school or at FCC. Earn your high school diploma and an industry certification or credential simultaneously.

High school students in this program explore career options and earn industry certifications or credentials by following a specific career track and taking courses either at their high school, on the FCC campus, or at the FCC Monroe Center. The goal of Career Pathways students is to earn an industry certification or credential either before or shortly after high school graduation. Available career programs vary by school; course locations vary by chosen pathway. FCPS Career Pathways students receive free tuition and fees at FCC for all courses. FCPS students participating in Career Pathways may obtain required textbooks and materials at the FCC bookstore at no cost to the student. 

 

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What is Dual Enrollment: Career Pathways?

Career Pathways refers to high school students exploring career options and earning industry certifications or credentials at FCC in a variety of in-demand industries.

What makes this program different from other Dual Enrollment opportunities?

Students in the Career Pathways program will take FCC courses in a specific career track either at their high school, on the FCC main campus, or the FCC Monroe Center. Career Pathways students will have the goal of earning an industry certification or credential either before or shortly after high school graduation.

How do I enroll in the Career Pathways Dual Enrollment program?

  1. Speak with your high school counselor about your plans to take a Continuing Education or Workforce Development (CEWD) course or program
  2. Browse course offerings on the CEWD registration site and confirm the need for placement testing by contacting the Dual Enrollment office at [email protected]
  3. Register for classes using the CEWD Registration Form and send form to [email protected]
    1. CHECK the box identifying yourself as a Frederick County high school student
  4. One the registration form is submitted, FCC Student Accounts will reach out to you about payment - payment plans are available for some programs.
  5. Tuition and fees are free for courses taken during the Fall or Spring semesters for FCPS students.
  6. Purchase textbooks. Students in career pathways may obtain required textbooks and materials at the FCC bookstore at no cost to the student. Students wishing to retain or write in their books and materials may purchase required materials for their own use.
  7. Attend class(es)

How much do courses cost for Career Pathways?

Tuition and fees are free for all FCPS students during the Fall and Spring semesters. Students must pay full tuition prices during the summer semester.

Are the courses taught at my high school or at FCC?

Course location is dependent upon the Career Pathway chosen by the student. Some courses may be taken at the high school, while other courses may take place on the FCC main campus or Monroe Center.

Can I enroll in a Career Pathways program at FCC even if my high school does not offer a CTE completer partnership?

Any FCPS student may enroll in any approved Career Pathways program at FCC as a Dual Enrollment student.

Students from high schools without the pathway partnerships may not be eligible to earn high school credit for Career Pathways programs. Please contact your school counselor for more information about high school credits. Current high schools that offer a CTE completer partnership: Frederick High School.

What and where is the FCC Monroe Center?

The Monroe Center is an FCC facility that houses offices, classrooms, and labs for Construction and Building Trades, Healthcare and Wellness, and the Hospitality, Culinary & Tourism Institute, including a commercial kitchen and demonstration restaurant. It is located at 200 Monroe Avenue in Frederick, MD.

What FCC career programs are available for Career Pathways?

Some high schools may offer classes that fulfill one or more requirements for FCC short-term training programs. Ask your counselor.

Career Pathways programs may include:
  1. CNA/GNA Nursing Assistant & Patient Care Technician
  2. Sterile Processing
  3. Electrical Certificate or Letter of Recognition
  4. HVAC Certificate or Letter of Recognition
  5. Welding Certificate or Letter of Recognition
  6. Veterinary Assistant
  7. Hospitality, Culinary & Tourism Institute courses
  8. Rehabilitation Aide
  9. Medical Billing & Coding
  10. IT User Support or Net +
  11. Certified Logistics Technician
  12. Manufacturing Technology          
  13. Automotive Technology
  14. Community Health Worker (coming in Fall 2023)

What FCC resources are available to students if they are dually enrolled?

A dually enrolled high school student can access all resources available to FCC students (Learning Commons; free tutoring at the Tutoring Center, Writing Center, and STEM Learning Center; online databases; online Writing Center).

Book an Accuplacer Appointment

Does FCC provide accommodations for FCPS students with an IEP or 504 plan?

Dually enrolled students seeking disability accommodations for FCC courses must request services through the FCC Disability Access Services (DAS) Office. Reasonable accommodations for post-secondary classes are offered to eligible students based on a formal initiation of services request and submission of appropriate disability documentation.

Students are required to meet with a disabilities specialist for an intake appointment. This appointment may be scheduled by calling 301.846.2408 or emailing Disability Access Services (DAS). More information about disability services is available at Disability Access Services (DAS) Office.
 

Graduate with a high school diploma and an FCC associate degree simultaneously.

High school students in the Early College program at FCC have the opportunity to earn an associate degree while still completing high school by attending FCC full-time during their junior and senior years. Similar to traditional full-time undergraduate students, Early College students follow the FCC academic calendar and have the option to take day, evening, online, and weekend courses. Schedules are developed with the Early College Coordinator.  Early College students receive free tuition and fees at FCC for all courses. FCPS students participating in Early College may obtain required textbooks and materials at the FCC bookstore at no cost to the student. 

 

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Early College Success Stories

  • Alivea Apshago Alivea Apshago
  • Gary C. Bonds III Gary C. Bonds III
  • Harsh Danayak Harsh Danayak
  • Leylani Destreza Leylani Destreza
  • Laila Harris Laila Harris
  • Kaylie Musard Kaylie Musard

What is Early College at FCC?

Graduates of Early College at FCC will earn an associate degree and high school diploma simultaneously by attending FCC full-time during their junior and senior years. The program was created to increase participation and completion of students from populations historically underrepresented in higher education, and is open to all FCPS high school students. 

Why should I sign up for Early College? What are the benefits?

  • Early College at FCC offers students:
  • Structured guidance to complete an associate degree with a cohort of students
  • Savings on time and money while completing postsecondary education goals
  • Rigorous coursework in a college campus setting for the last two years of high school
  • An associate degree from FCC and a high school diploma from FCPS in just four years
  • Flexibility to major in most programs offered by FCC

How do I qualify for Early College at FCC?

To qualify for entry into Early College, by the end of grade 10, students must:
  • Be currently enrolled as a FCPS student*
  • Have completed a minimum of 16 high school graduation credits.
  • Meet College and Career Readiness standards for Dual Enrollment. Assessment scores (SAT, ACT, ACCUPLACER and AP), course grades, and GPA determine college and career readiness. Scores required to enroll in college level, credit-bearing courses are below.


Required: two credits each of high school English, math, science, and social studies, including English 10, Algebra 1, Biology, and Government

Strongly Recommended: Math through Algebra 2; a third high school lab science credit (usually either Chemistry or Environmental Science); completion of fine arts, physical education, health, technology education, financial literacy, and “Completer” (e.g. two years of the same World Language) credits
  • Have a minimum 2.0 cumulative unweighted GPA (3.0 or higher preferred)
  • Complete an Early College Application Packet and interview process
* Please email the Dual Enrollment Office for questions about other Dual Enrollment opportunities for students not in FCPS.

What is the application and admissions process?

Early College admission applications will be due by April 1st of a for current FCPS sophomores. Students who apply and meet the program qualifications may be scheduled for an interview by Early College staff as part of the application process. All students who meet the above qualifications are welcome to apply.

Applicants are encouraged to review the Early College Interview Prep Tool in the Application Packet to prepare for their face-to-face interview with the Early College staff. Prior to the interview, applicants will have an opportunity to see the questions and take notes to prepare.

What are the costs? Is financial aid available?

Tuition and fees are free for all FCPS students during the Fall and Spring semesters. Students must pay full tuition prices during the summer semester.

Will transportation be provided?

Transportation will not be provided. Students and families should consider how they will provide consistent transportation for Early College.

If transportation is a significant barrier for participation in Early College, applicants should contact the FCC Dual Enrollment office for assistance.

Note: The FCC main campus is on the city bus route and located near the FCPS Career and Technology Center (CTC).

What does a student’s day look like at Early College?

The day of an Early College student will be very similar to the day of a traditional full-time undergraduate student.

Early College students follow the FCC academic calendar and most classes occur between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., with evening, online, and weekend courses available. Some programs may require coursework during the summer term or January session, at clinical or internship sites, or at the Monroe Center. Early College student schedules will be developed with the student by the Early College Coordinator.

Early College students will spend approximately 15 hours in class over the course of a week and should expect to spend approximately 30 additional hours completing out-of-class work per week. Student schedules may have open blocks of time during the day to complete this work.

All students will have access to FCC facilities including the Learning Commons, STEM Learning Center, and Cougar Grille before and after classes. During their first semester, most Early College students will be enrolled in a cohort section of English 101, designed around a theme of college success.

How do I complete the remainder of my high school requirements while being in Early College?

Early College students will complete their remaining high school credits through FCC courses that are eligible for dual credit. The Early College coordinator and FCPS coordinator for Dual Enrollment ensure that all Early College students are on track to graduate high school on time while in the program. All FCC courses taken for dual credit count as weighted grades on the FCPS transcript.

Are Dual Enrollment final course grades weighted on my high school transcript?

Yes, grades earned in Dual Enrollment courses (including High School Based, Open Campus, and Early College) count as weighted grades in your high school GPA, but only for courses for which you elect to receive dual credit.

What are the academic and conduct expectations of me as a student?

Prior to the start of the program, Early College students will participate in a mandatory transition course (one college credit) during the summer at FCC.

Early College students are responsible for their own attendance and there is no required check-in on campus; however, college faculty will share attendance requirements for individual courses.

Students will need to access FCC course websites and will benefit from having a computer and internet access at home. Students without access to a computer or internet at home may utilize FCC open computer labs or the Learning Commons during regular operating hours.

Students in Early College will be held to the same conduct standards as FCC students and FCPS students. Students in violation of these standards may be subject to discipline at either or both institutions.

What if I am unsuccessful or want to withdraw?

Early College academic progress standards are designed to protect students from delayed high school graduation.

Students who do not demonstrate appropriate academic progress will be dismissed from Early College and will return to their home high school. These students will continue to be eligible to take Open Campus and High School Based Dual Enrollment courses and may apply to become traditional FCC students following high school graduation. Students may also elect to withdraw from the program, in consultation with the Early College coordinator.

Will parents/guardians be informed of a student's enrollment in a college course?

Per the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), all communication from the college will be addressed to the student.

It is the responsibility of students to share all information with their parents/guardians. Parents/guardians are encouraged to be actively involved in the registration process with their child each semester and speak with their child about course progress.

Can I participate in extracurricular activities at my home high school and at FCC?

Students are dually enrolled at both their home FCPS high school and at FCC. As such, students can access clubs and extracurricular programs at either institution (with the exception of FCC athletic teams).

However, individual college schedules may not accommodate FCPS extracurricular events as readily as the home high school would. Students need to consider the level of involvement with any extracurricular program and their ability to balance activities with Early College academic demands.

Does FCC provide accommodations for FCPS students with an IEP or 504 plan?

Dually enrolled students seeking disability accommodations for FCC courses must request services through the FCC Disability Access Services (DAS) Office. Accommodations at FCC may not be the same as those provided by FCPS.

Reasonable accommodations for post-secondary classes are offered to eligible students based on a formal initiation of services request and submission of appropriate disability documentation. Students are required to meet with a disabilities specialist for an intake appointment. This appointment may be scheduled by calling 301.846.2408 or emailing Disability Access Services (DAD. More information about disability services is available at  Disability Access Services (DAS) Office.


 
close Alivea Apshago
Alivea Apshago
“Joining Early College was by far the best choice I’ve made so far in my academic career, and the community that came along with it made it even more worth it.”
 
What high school did you go to? When did you graduate?
 
I attended Frederick High School and graduated in May 2023.
 
What degree did you earn from FCC?
 
I earned an Associate of Arts in Business Administration and an Associate of Science with a concentration in Engineering, as well as a Certificate of Business Management.
 
What are you doing now and what are your future plans?
 
In fall 2023, I’ll be starting at Purdue University for Aerospace Engineering, and after earning my bachelor’s and master’s degrees, I hope to move into the commercial space industry and one day become an astronaut.
 
What made you decide to apply to the Early College program?
 
I don’t remember exactly how I found out about the program, but as soon as I heard about it, I knew it was where I wanted to be. Since elementary school, I’ve looked for the educational paths that challenge me the most, and this was the next step in that journey and the challenge I was looking for.
 
What was being in the program like, and was it what you expected?
 
Being in the program was the best experience I had throughout my K-12 education, but I wouldn't say it was what I expected. I don't think I had many expectations initially, but the academic freedom of the program surprised me. I loved being able to choose the rigor of my classes, as well as choose the academic load I was undertaking, and the support from both Early College administration (Mr. McClain) and FCC staff (STEM Center) was something I hadn't really experienced before. As for the social component, the community was a completely unexpected upside of the program, especially as we finished our senior year and shared the experiences leading up to graduation. Overall, the program completely exceeded my expectations.
 
What was your favorite thing about being in the Early College program?
 
My favorite thing about Early College was definitely the flexibility, from several perspectives. The flexibility of class times was fantastic (not a morning person), the ability to add more or less credits to my schedule based on what I knew my limits were was exactly the academic challenge I needed, and the support in several departments that allowed me to balance my college and high school responsibilities was incredibly beneficial.
 
What resources did you utilize while in Early College? Were there any offices or staff members that were especially helpful to you?
 
During my time in Early College, the resource I utilized the most was the STEM Center, both for tutoring/review and also as a place to work with peers. The staff often served as a bouncing board for me when studying, to make sure I had the right processes down. Aside from the STEM Center, our Early College advisor Mr. McClain was by far the most helpful staff member at FCC. Not only does he serve as the academic advisor for Early College students, helping us schedule classes and complete our degree pathways, but he also serves as a support system for us. Anytime we had a conflict between our FCC and FCPS schedules and needed an extra voice of support, he would advocate for us, and if we ever had any issues at FCC or simply needed someone to talk to, his door was always open. The program is how great it is because of Mr. McClain.
 
Were you able to stay involved with your high school as an Early College student?
 
I was never super involved with high school to begin with, but to the extent that I was, I was easily able to maintain the balance. I often dropped into my high school for the Ceramics Club, attended pep rallies, went to Spanish Honor Society meetings, volunteered at our high school International Night, and even did Varsity Diving my senior year.
 
How did Early College help you achieve your long-term goals?
 
Not only did Early College allow me to acclimate a higher academic standard than high school and learn to manage my own time, but earning my degrees before even graduating high school set me incredibly far ahead when transferring to my four-year school. The credits I earned at FCC allowed me to enter my university with senior status, and will allow me to begin in my major-specific classes immediately, rather than taking gen-eds. In the long run, this advancement will allow me to graduate with a master's degree in the same amount of time it would normally take for a bachelor’s, and will help me enter my career field at a higher level to begin with.
 
What advice would you give someone considering Early College?
 
I would say that without a doubt, if you’re looking for an academic challenge and a new tight knit friend group, it’s worth giving it a shot. Joining Early College was by far the best choice I’ve made so far in my academic career, and the community that came along with it made it even more worth it. You’ll never know what you could be gaining if you don’t try.
close Gary C. Bonds III
Gary C. Bonds III
“Early College has not only provided me with academic knowledge but also an excellent network of academic scholars and professors. This network is something I cherish the most, even more than the degree itself.”
 
What high school did you go to? When did you graduate?
 
I attended Brunswick High School and graduated on May 23, 2023.
 
What degree did you earn from FCC?
 
I earned my associate in engineering at FCC.
 
What are you doing now and what are your future plans?
 
I am now about to attend Tuskegee University on a full academic scholarship. Tuskegee University is the number three ranked HBCU in the nation and I will be studying aerospace engineering while also commissioning into the United States Air Force through Air Force ROTC.
 
What made you decide to apply to the Early College program?
 
I saw this as a great opportunity to gain college experience early, which would be beneficial in the long run, especially in such a challenging field. Additionally, I recognized the financial benefits of earning college credits early and at a lower cost than the traditional route.
 
What was being in the program like, and was it what you expected?
 
Early College has been a very enjoyable and interesting experience. Meeting students from other high schools who are just as intelligent and focused on their goals has been a privilege. Everyone encourages each other, so no one feels left out or discouraged in their classes. It’s funny because one of the first questions I asked my Early College advisor was, “Do the students in this program usually become friends?” and his answer was hesitant because of the pandemic and virtual learning, but my fellow peers have become lifelong friends who I can count on for anything, anytime.
 
What was your favorite thing about being in the Early College program?
 
The obvious advantage of Early College is not having to wake up early or having only two classes a day. However, as I mentioned before, the friendships and relationships formed during this time are phenomenal. These connections and networks can provide endless opportunities for future success, not just with fellow classmates, but also with professors, faculty, staff, and other people on campus.
 
What resources did you utilize while in Early College? Were there any offices or staff members that were especially helpful to you?
 
Without a doubt, one of the most valuable resources I utilized was attending my professors' office hours. This precious time was specifically reserved for addressing problems I had within the class. The professors were incredibly helpful during these sessions as they could focus on the specific material I needed assistance with, going beyond the general lectures we attended regularly. In particular, Professor Hartley from the math department was amazing and I took all my math classes with him throughout my four semesters.
 
Were you able to stay involved with your high school as an Early College student?
 
As an Early College student, I typically had more free time compared to regular high school students. This allowed me to easily attend club meetings and events at my high school. I participated in everything a typical high school student would, such as prom, homecoming, and other social events.
 
How did Early College help you achieve your long-term goals?
 
As I mentioned earlier, Early College has not only provided me with academic knowledge but also an excellent network of academic scholars and professors. This network is something I cherish the most, even more than the degree itself.
 
What advice would you give someone considering Early College?
 
I would definitely recommend working on your time management and studying skills if needed. Taking classes at FCC certainly has its pros, but these classes can sometimes be overwhelming. Therefore, it's crucial to have good time management skills and the ability to study effectively.
 
close Harsh Danayak
Harsh Danayak
“I knew I wanted to get ahead of my education but I did not know how. When I learned about Early College, I knew this is what I was looking for.”
 
What high school did you go to? When did you graduate?
 
I went to Oakdale High School and graduated in May 2023.
 
What degree did you earn from FCC?
 
I earned a STEM Technology degree at FCC.
 
What are you doing now and what are your future plans?
 
I will be attending UMBC for the next two years to earn my bachelor’s in computer science. I eventually want to find a tech job in a well-known company and get my master’s in cybersecurity.
 
What made you decide to apply to the Early College program?
 
I knew I wanted to get ahead of my education but I did not know how. When I learned about Early College, I knew this is what I was looking for. It was a big step to help me achieve what I wanted.
 
What was being in the program like, and was it what you expected?
 
Being in the program was such a great experience. I made new friends that became a big part of my life. My advisors as well were some of the best I have come across so far. They are thoughtful and are happy to create conversation with you. The whole experience was something I never expected.
 
What was your favorite thing about being in the Early College program?
 
My favorite part of the whole program would be having people around you with similar struggles whether it be an upcoming exam or personal drama. We were all open with our problems and we all helped each other which was the best part.
 
What resources did you utilize while in Early College? Were there any offices or staff members that were especially helpful to you?
 
My advisors, Andrew McClain and Elizabeth Duffy were some of the best people I have ever met. They are thoughtful and Andrew always helped me with my classes especially after a not so great first semester. The writing and reading center was also a great place to study and get tutored in anything that involves research or writing.
 
Were you able to stay involved with your high school as an Early College student?
 
Personally, I branched out of my high school when I started Early College but I was still able to keep a connection with old friends and still went to main school events that were fun to go to.
 
How did Early College help you achieve your long-term goals?
 
This program helped me get a big jump start on my college education. I plan on doing a dual degree plan for my four years which will allow me to get my bachelor’s and master’s in the next three years which is crazy. I will already have my master’s degree while most will still be working on their undergraduate degree.
 
What advice would you give someone considering Early College?
 
It is going to be a long journey full of ups and downs. But one thing I can promise is that you will learn information rapidly and it will benefit you in the end. Try not to stress too much and have fun. Attend the FCC events and stay connected to your high school if you can.
close Leylani Destreza
Leylani Destreza

“Being able to take college classes in high school gave me more of a sense of what careers I possibly would or would not be interested in.”
 
What high school did you go to? When did you graduate?
 
I attended Governor Thomas Johnson High School and I graduated in May 2023.
 
What degree did you earn from FCC?
 
I earned an associate degree in business administration from FCC.
 
What are you doing now and what are your future plans?
 
I am attending the University of Maryland for my remaining two years of college to pursue a finance degree. At the University of Maryland, I was selected to participate in the honor's college.
 
What made you decide to apply to the Early College program?
 
I first heard about the Early College program through my high school counselor when I was in my sophomore year of high school. I originally wanted to graduate early from high school, but my counselor informed me about other academic routes besides graduating early, such as Early College. Once I heard about Early College and the fact that I would be able to graduate high school with my associate degree, I immediately wanted to apply to the program.
 
What was being in the program like, and was it what you expected?
 
The program was a bit of an adjustment from what I had been used to in terms of structure and freedom. Before I started my first semester in Early College, I was very nervous about how it would be. It was much better than I expected. Once I began my first semester at FCC, I loved it. I had so much freedom in my schedule, and many of the professors and staff were very nice. Although, I had to get used to the structure of these classes because they were self-paced and unlike high school where there's someone constantly telling you what to do.
 
What was your favorite thing about being in the Early College program?
 
My favorite thing about being in the Early College program was being able to get a head start in my career path. Being able to take college classes in high school gave me more of a sense of what careers I possibly would or would not be interested in.
 
What resources did you utilize while in Early College? Were there any offices or staff members that were especially helpful to you?
 
The resources I utilized the most were the STEM Center and the library research database. The STEM Center was extremely helpful when I needed help for my math or science classes, and I would definitely recommend going there.
 
Were you able to stay involved with your high school as an Ealy College student?
 
I was able to stay involved with my high school as an Early College student. I played sports, was a part of a few clubs, and I went to many sports games and other events.
 
How did Early College help you achieve your long-term goals?
 
Early College is helping me achieve my long-term goals, such as receiving a bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of Maryland because it reduces my time there. FCC was also very affordable and helped my family and I save thousands of dollars.
 
What advice would you give someone considering Early College?
 
Early College is a big adjustment from high school classes, so do your best to keep up with your work. There are also a lot of resources to help you at FCC, utilize them the best you can, there's nothing wrong with getting help!

 
 
What high school did you go to? When did you graduate?
 
I attended Governor Thomas Johnson High School and I graduated in May 2023.
 
What degree did you earn from FCC?
 
I earned an associate degree in business administration from FCC.
 
What are you doing now and what are your future plans?
 
I am attending the University of Maryland for my remaining two years of college to pursue a finance degree. At the University of Maryland, I was selected to participate in the honor's college.
 
What made you decide to apply to the Early College program?
 
I first heard about the Early College program through my high school counselor when I was in my sophomore year of high school. I originally wanted to graduate early from high school, but my counselor informed me about other academic routes besides graduating early, such as Early College. Once I heard about Early College and the fact that I would be able to graduate high school with my associate degree, I immediately wanted to apply to the program.
 
What was being in the program like, and was it what you expected?
 
The program was a bit of an adjustment from what I had been used to in terms of structure and freedom. Before I started my first semester in Early College, I was very nervous about how it would be. It was much better than I expected. Once I began my first semester at FCC, I loved it. I had so much freedom in my schedule, and many of the professors and staff were very nice. Although, I had to get used to the structure of these classes because they were self-paced and unlike high school where there's someone constantly telling you what to do.
 
What was your favorite thing about being in the Early College program?
 
My favorite thing about being in the Early College program was being able to get a head start in my career path. Being able to take college classes in high school gave me more of a sense of what careers I possibly would or would not be interested in.
 
What resources did you utilize while in Early College? Were there any offices or staff members that were especially helpful to you?
 
The resources I utilized the most were the STEM Center and the library research database. The STEM Center was extremely helpful when I needed help for my math or science classes, and I would definitely recommend going there.
 
Were you able to stay involved with your high school as an Ealy College student?
 
I was able to stay involved with my high school as an Early College student. I played sports, was a part of a few clubs, and I went to many sports games and other events.
 
How did Early College help you achieve your long-term goals?
 
Early College is helping me achieve my long-term goals, such as receiving a bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of Maryland because it reduces my time there. FCC was also very affordable and helped my family and I save thousands of dollars.
 
What advice would you give someone considering Early College?
 
Early College is a big adjustment from high school classes, so do your best to keep up with your work. There are also a lot of resources to help you at FCC, utilize them the best you can, there's nothing wrong with getting help!

close Laila Harris
Laila Harris
“The sense of community at FCC really helped me succeed. It gave me the chance to get to know other students and keep myself accountable.”
 
What high school did you go to? When did you graduate?
 
I went to Walkersville High School and graduated on May 24, 2023.
 
What degree did you earn from FCC?
 
I earned a degree in biology.
 
What are you doing now and what are your future plans?
 
I will attend Baylor University in the fall to continue my biology degree and minor in women’s studies, on the pre-med track. My ultimate goal is to become a fetal surgeon.
 
What made you decide to apply to the Early College program?
 
I wanted to challenge myself academically and get a head start on my academic/college career.
 
What was being in the program like, and was it what you expected?
 
Being in the program was amazing. Not only was I able to learn and improve academically, but also mentally. Participating in the program fostered a lot of personal growth and also helped me to connect with peers who shared similar interests and goals. My experience in the program exceeded my expectations.
 
What was your favorite thing about being in the Early College program?
 
The sense of community that I experienced over the two years. Since our class size was small, it gave us the chance to really get to know each other, keep ourselves accountable, and make sure that everyone got the chance to succeed.
 
What resources did you utilize while in Early College? Were there any offices or staff members that were especially helpful to you?
 
I utilized many resources such as the STEM Center, online tutoring service, and the counseling/wellness service. All of the tutors and counselors were very helpful and important during my time in the program.
 
Were you able to stay involved with your high school as an Ealy College student?
 
Yes! I was in National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, Spanish Club, and I played on the varsity volleyball team.
 
How did Early College help you achieve your long-term goals?
 
My long-term goal was to complete high school with an associate degree. The program helped me to visualize my success in higher education. And by doing this, I was able to cross off my goals because I fully knew that I was capable of completing them.
 
What advice would you give someone considering Early College?
 
Believe that you can, and you will. It took me a long time to realize that stressing over grades or assignments isn’t worth it. As long as you truly believe that you’ve succeeded, you will succeed.

 
close Kaylie Musard
Kaylie Musard
“What really drew me to the Early College program was the ability to get a feel for college early and at an affordable price all while still being able to compete in high school athletics.”
 
What high school did you go to? When did you graduate?
 
I went to Walkersville High School and graduated in May 2023.
 
What degree did you earn from FCC?
 
Listed below are the following degrees I obtained from FCC with high honors.
 
STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics- Biology Area of Concentration
STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics- Chemistry Area of Concentration
STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics- Engineering Area of Concentration
STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics
 
What are you doing now and what are your future plans?
 
Currently I am studying biomedical engineering and wrestling at Columbia University. My future plans include attending medical school with aspirations of becoming an orthopedic surgeon.
 
What made you decide to apply to the Early College program?
 
What really drew me to the Early College program was the ability to get a feel for college early and at an affordable price all while still being able to compete in high school athletics. Although, I initially hesitated because I felt like I would miss out on high school friendships.
 
What was being in the program like, and was it what you expected?
 
Being in the program was pretty different than what I had expected. I didn’t expect to build as many connections and friendships as I did. I also thought it would be more challenging, however this is not the case with all the right guidance.
 
What was your favorite thing about being in the Early College program?
 
I can’t just pick one thing to say is my favorite about Early College as it is really made up of two components. The combination of a rigorous academic environment in a foundation to build long lasting relationships is something I will always cherish.
 
What resources did you utilize while in Early College? Were there any offices or staff members that were especially helpful to you?
 
Andrew McClain, Elizabeth Duffy and my mentors (Professor Val Lochman, Gregory Coldren, and Dr. Debbie Ellis)  were especially helpful to my success at Frederick Community College.
 
Were you able to stay involved with your high school as an Early College student?
 
Yes, although I was not present at my high school I was able to successfully participate in sports and honors societies.
 
How did Early College help you achieve your long-term goals?
 
Early College has equipped me with the right tools to excel at my dream school, Columbia University.
 
What advice would you give someone considering Early College?
 
To anyone considering Early College I suggest that you don’t hesitate to reach out and ask questions. The program is still fairly new and can be tricky to understand the ins and outs. It is always best to ask for help!
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Meet Tomas Aker - Dual Enrollment Alumni

Tomas earned an associate degree in information technology as well as a Network Engineer Certificate and a Computer Studies Certificate, all before his 19th birthday. Tomas graduated from high school with 32 college credits. Earning these credits as a high school student helped propel his pace of completion, and he hasn't slowed down since. Read his story.

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Dr. Matthew Paushter
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301.624.2802
Laura Godwin-Stewart
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240.629.7993
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Dual Enrollment & Early College Coordinator
301.624.2893

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240.629.7919

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301.696.6947

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