Outside the Classroom

Early college and dual enrollment students exist simultaneously in two worlds – high school and college. As research has shown that student engagement at both levels is important to students, programs need to include some access to co-curricular and extra-curricular experience into their design. These activities, particularly high school sports, are often an important part of student identity, and without a way to participate, many potential early college/dual enrollment students may decline to participate. Many on-campus programs have designed new co-curricular activities for their students, which include leadership and service opportunities to help them connect more strongly to the campus they are taking classes on. Early college and dual enrollment students face a unique set of pressure and stresses in their academic and social lives. Being a college student while also in high school, and at the same time pursuing college admissions, layers stress on stress and can have a negative impact on student well-being and achievement. Mental health and wellness support for early college students is a critical part of program design and implementation.