“What can I do to be prepared for college? How should I gain more experience in my major” are thoughts that occupy many students’ minds. Numerous students began taking AP classes their freshman year – meaning that they have already taken the hardest course in the field they intend to major in. They do not know how to further their knowledge in the area. Luckily, there is an option for students, the Early College Credit Program (EECP).
“EECP is the opportunity for high school students to take college courses at any WI two or four-year UW or Private colleges within Wisconsin. Students can take up to 18 credits” Dr. Amie Farley, Elmbrook Director of College, Career, and Life readiness, explains. The advantages of this program are endless. Farley adds that courses can “save time and cost for degree completion.” Similar to AP or CAPP courses, ECCP courses can boost a student’s weighted GPA. Additionally, any credits gained through the ECCP program could possibly be used to help students graduate college earlier. Since the ECCP program works with any Wisconsin University, the course offerings are almost endless allowing students to pick classes closely related to their career interests. As Farley notes, “most commonly students have taken all the coursework available in an area of study and take college courses to keep moving forward.” Aniella Kovacic (11) took Nutrition and Food Science and Physiological Psychology through UW Madison to expand her knowledge after taking AP Psychology. She commented, “I am so grateful to have this opportunity to learn more about neuroscience and the brain beyond a high school level. The experience as a whole has been really interesting.”
Lastly, it provides students with the routine of college life. Aditi Moorching (10) participated in Data Structures in EECP. Moorching also noted that college classes involved, “more independent work and self study” than high school classes. Many do not realize that while the workload is heavier in college, classes typically do not run every day of the week, meaning that getting good grades is highly dependent on independent studying. Kovacic also agreed with Moorching, expressing, “I’m better at independent studying now and also being more accountable for the work I have to do.”
Indeed, taking ECCP courses offers a glimpse into what it takes to be successful in college level courses.
EECP is a great way to earn college credit, take more rigorous classes related to your desired field of study, and prepare for college. If you are interested in applying for an EECP course, the application is due on March 1rst for the Summer and Fall Semester and October 1rst for the Spring semester! Students can access more information about the program on the district website!
