Michigan City – Four alumni of Michigan City High School returned to MCHS on Thursday to share their college experience, advice, wisdom, and tips with another generation of Wolves – specifically speaking with juniors and seniors in the MCHS Early College Program.
All four of the guest speakers were once enrolled in the Early College Program, which focuses on preparing MCHS students for college and careers through personal attention and classes that result in both high school and college credits.
Jake Miller, who is currently studying business at Valparaiso University, advised students to apply to several colleges and universities, and then find the most compatible match. “You need to apply, apply, apply,” he said. “Apply to as many schools as you can because these are your options.”
He also stressed the importance of good grades and extracurricular involvement, saying that colleges often look at academics as well as how much effort a student puts into their campus and community involvement.
Another Valparaiso University student, Brenda Huizar, who is studying nursing, said it was the MCHS Early College program that helped get her where she needed to be to succeed in college.
“You guys are in the best program” she told the high school juniors and seniors, describing how the Early College program helped her grow. “Push yourself and try the best you can.”
Javant Hodges, also a former MCHS Early College student, is now studying exercise science at Indiana University and hopes to become an orthopedic surgeon.
“It will be a long road for me, but I was well prepared through Early College,” he said, referring to his future career plans. “I have a goal, and I want to strive to achieve that goal. Anything is possible if you put your mind to it.”
Chris French is a junior at Wabash College. His advice to today’s high school students focused on having a vision for the future.
“There is a difference between dreams and making that a reality,” he said, something he learned through the Early College program. He challenged the students to have a “visioning session” for themselves. “Be honest with yourself and think beyond college. Where do you want to be?”
More information about Michigan City High School’s Early College program is available by visiting www.EducateMC.net/earlycollege.