On Friday, May 10th, the Early College class of 2018 graduated with their Associates Degree from STC at the State Farm Arena. With this new accolade for each of these seniors also came the closing of a long and rewarding chapter.

Senior Leslie Munoz, who graduated with her Associates Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, spent not only four high school years in EHS’ Early College program, but also her summers in between to fulfill requirements for her degree.

“This program made me feel more confident going into the real world and understanding what college will be like. It prepares you for a new environment,” Munoz said. “You get motivated by those around you in this program; they become your friends, and they push and motivate you. You also become motivated by yourself by wanting to be better than your peers.”

Senior Jack Cano who also graduated with his Associates Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies used Early College as an gain opportunities beyond the benefits a high school degree offers, and also as a way to make college more affordable.

“I feel like it was the best thing I could have accomplished. It has opened a lot of doors for me after high school that my high school diploma couldn’t have alone,” Cano said. “It was definitely worth it as it saved my parents a lot of money and it saved me a lot of time going into the future and kick starting my adult life.”

For senior Daniela Razo, achieving her associates degree brought to light that she can do what she sets her mind to.

“The journey towards accomplishing my degree was fun yet challenging, and I cherished every moment of it,” Razo said. “Achieving this accomplishment before my high school graduation opened my eyes to what I’m capable of. I saw my potential and never doubted myself after.”