HS4CC parent Ema’s son graduated from their homeschool in May 2024, capping off an extraordinary homeschool journey with a high school diploma and an impressive 67 college credits. Now, eight months later, Ema is excited to share an update on his progress as he navigates his first year of college and prepares for a career in technology.
I love stories like these! It shows how a parent working with their teen (and a little HS4CC resourcefulness) can really do great things. Let’s take a look at his inspiring journey and recent updates as he carves out his path toward a bright future.
Celebrating the Class of 2024
Ema’s son graduated high school with an impressive 67 college credits under his belt, earned through dual enrollment and other credit-earning methods. He is now pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at Western Governors University (WGU), a self-paced, competency-based program that’s an ideal fit for his goals and learning style.
But his high school achievements didn’t stop at academics. Ema shared a few highlights about her son’s passions and accomplishments:
- Music Excellence: Alongside his academic success, he is a gifted composer and earned the family’s Music Excellence Award.
- Community and Family-Oriented: He values time spent with family and friends, volunteers at the local library, and is an active member of their synagogue and Jewish community.
- A Unique Graduation Celebration: Ema and her family designed a custom honor cord system to recognize his accomplishments. His cords included:
- Blue and Silver: Representing Computer Science.
- Red and Black: Distinctive Course of Study.
- Gold: Honors.
- Teal: HS4CC (College Credits Earned).
HS4CC Pro Tip: You can do this, too!! Design the honors program you wish existed and recognize your teen for all their hard work and accomplishments.
Progress at WGU and Career Planning
Since starting WGU in September, Ema’s son has hit the ground running. In his first term, which ends in February, he’s on track to complete an additional 20 credits, bringing him closer to his degree in record time. This self-paced program allows him to maximize his efforts while balancing other exciting opportunities.
One of those opportunities is applying for summer internships, a crucial step for gaining experience in his chosen field of Data Science, Analytics, or Machine Learning. Although he began applying later in the season, Ema is optimistic about the many positions that open after January.
In the meantime, he has also applied for a part-time Health IT position at a local hospital. While not an internship, this role functions similarly, offering hands-on experience and valuable connections in the tech world. One of the most exciting aspects? The hospital provides tuition assistance for graduate school, offering a potential long-term pathway to career advancement.
HS4CC PRO TIP: Don’t overlook this aspect of her story! Most large companies have education benefits for employees, you just have to be willing to jump through a few hoops to use them. My family has used -and is currently using- an employer’s education benefit. My husband is on his 3rd free degree.
A Tech Conference Opportunity
This January, he’ll attend a tech conference in Ohio after being selected as a volunteer. His selection was no small feat, requiring a written essay to earn the spot. As a volunteer, he’ll receive free tickets to the conference and accommodations, allowing him to network with professionals in his field while expanding his knowledge of cutting-edge technology trends.
Reflections
For families considering the homeschool-to-college credit path, Ema’s story is an inspiring reminder of what’s possible. From dual enrollment credits to designing personalized graduation ceremonies, homeschooling offers unparalleled flexibility and opportunities for success.
Congratulations to Ema’s graduate on all he has achieved and the exciting journey ahead!
