Why We Chose Dual Enrollment

Dual Enrollment opportunities are available to students in high school. They have the ability to take courses in which they may receive credit in high school as well as earning college credit. Dual enrollment courses are available through Rio Salado College and are available in a variety of content areas. Three students from Valley Vista High School sat down and shared their perspective on how dual enrollment has helped each of them in their academic career.

Angela David, Senior, Valley Vista
Dual Enrollment Courses Taken: 5
Career Interest: Business & Marketing

"Taking Dual Enrollment classes allowed me to hit two birds with one stone, by saving time and money completing college classes while in high school. It also held me to a higher standard compared to a traditional class and motivated me to work harder. My teachers provided individualized help and personal feedback on my assignments and assessments, assisting me in every way possible with challenges I faced. Dual Enrollment also offers a wide selection of classes for all majors. Earning college credit while still in high school is extremely beneficial and rewarding; all your hard work pays off!"

Angelia Kelsay, Senior, Valley Vista
Dual Enrollment Courses Taken: 4
Career Interest: Psychology & Business Analytics

"It is important that schools offer Dual Enrollment classes because it allows students to maximize their academic potential by earning college credit early. I knew that in the long run, the college credits I earned in high school would alleviate some of the course load I would have in college. It also permits students to become accustomed to the demands of college level classes. Taking Dual Enrollment has allowed me to develop study habits that will serve me well in a university setting and has familiarized me with the expectations of college work. There is even the opportunity to graduate with an associate’s degree while in high school!"

Micah De Hebrew, Junior, Valley Vista
Dual Enrollment Courses Taken: 6
Career Interest: Criminal Justice

"The main reason I decided to enroll in dual enrollment classes was because of financial reasons. Dual enrollment courses are significantly cheaper than the equivalent college course while still providing the same subject material. It’s also much cheaper if you qualify for tuition assistance. Last school year, I took 14 credits with dual enrollment and the Maricopa Grant Program covered 11 of the credits. My family only had to pay for the three remaining credits. The main difference between a traditional class and a dual enrollment class is that dual enrollment courses typically hold the students to a higher standard and the work is more rigorous. One big difference that I’ve noticed is that the dual enrollment instructors are usually extremely educated on the subject, which is expected because they are qualified to teach at the college level. You will also see the dual enrollment instructor way more often than you would compared to a college professor because of the high school schedule. This allows for more opportunities to ask questions and to actually make sure that you understand the subject material."