This post was written by Victoria Jimenez-Higdon, a senior at Tri-County Early College (Cherokee County Schools) and a member of the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council.
When I was in eighth grade, I was faced with the question, or more so, my mom informed me that I would be going to an early college. I was afraid I wasn’t going to live the true high school experience. I was unsure if I could go to prom or have a homecoming dance. I was most afraid of meeting new people and making new connections. I wasn’t sure if I could live up to those expectations. I wasn’t sure if I would be able to make friends.
To provide context, my previous school is one of the smallest in North Carolina, with less than 150 students across all 12 grades. I had been there since Pre-K and knew everyone at the school. I had known nothing but this small school. But soon, the summer came to an end, and I found myself walking into the doors of Tri-County Early College (TCEC).
Across my four years here, I have never worried about any of my initial concerns. The faculty has been nothing but supportive and always willing to help. From day one, I was treated with respect and dignity. I was treated as an individual rather than a number, and I was encouraged to put my name out there and to just be myself.
TCEC always encourages students to be leaders through embracing a learner’s mindset, accepting personal responsibility and advocating for themselves and others. Many clubs, sports and even certain classes are initiated because of student advocates. With this environment, I strived for things I never thought I would have if I had continued my education at a normal high school.
Through the encouragement of teachers and counselors, I was chosen to be a member of the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council (SSAC) through an application process. I am one of two students who represent the most western region of North Carolina. I have used my voice to advocate for students and teachers alike, and I have seen what great things come when we listen to those who want to be heard.
As well as being a member of SSAC, I had the opportunity to travel to Raleigh for a week and serve as a Governor's Page, where I met state representatives and Gov. Josh Stein. Although I only spent five days in the program, I met not only new acquaintances, but also possible connections for a future career. I’ve also had the opportunity to travel internationally with the school all four years of high school. I’ve learned about international culture, and I continue to grow every year I go.
I am forever grateful that my mom pushed me to go to TCEC, and I don’t think I would’ve been the person I am today without all the help and support from the faculty and staff at TCEC. I would like to personally thank my mom, Mrs. Katya Jimenez-Heaton; my teachers, Mr. Caesar Campana and Mrs. Marianne Leek; and my principal, Mr. Jason Forrister; as well as my counselors and all faculty members at TCEC. You have all shaped me into the person I am today, and words can not express the gratitude I hold.
Although I don’t think early colleges are for everyone, they are a great option for many students. The area I am from sees a lot of students who stay in our rural area and either go straight to the workforce out of high school or receive an associate degree from Tri-County Community College following graduation. I think students who choose not to attend college should absolutely consider attending an early college.
I am not here to try to convince every student or parent that they need to attend an early college because it's not for every student, but I am here to tell you all the amazing things and opportunities I have been presented with because I chose to attend an early college.
My journey at TCEC will be coming to an end this May when I graduate as a member of the Class of 2026. I hope to attend NC State and major in political science. I would never go back and change my decision to attend TCEC, and I know no matter what, I will be prepared because of my high school experience.