What if high school could give you a head start on college, and teach you how to succeed once you get there?

For Shelbyville Central High School senior Oren Grijalva, Middle College is doing both.

Middle College gives students the opportunity to earn college credits while completing high school, with the potential to graduate from high school with an associate degree!

But for Oren, the experience offers much more than a head start on college coursework.

“Being a Middle College student is my way of challenging myself to my fullest extent academically,” Oren explained. “In fact, this is one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. However, I’ve never once regretted joining the program.”

Through demanding college courses, Oren has learned to manage time, meet stricter deadlines and balance academics with extracurricular activities and friendships, skills that will continue to pay off long after graduation.

The college credits can also provide a significant advantage. Depending on the credits earned and future degree requirements, students may reduce their college course load and potentially complete a four-year degree in less time.

As a future engineer, Oren has also gained a glimpse into life beyond high school. College-level math and science courses have offered a closer look at how those subjects apply to the real world.

“The learning has extended beyond the classroom, too,” Oren commented. “During my first semester, I traveled to an art museum in Alabama for art class, and it turned out to be one of the coolest experiences of my life.”

For him, Middle College has opened doors to new places and experiences he might not otherwise have had.

The experience hasn't been without sacrifices, however. Oren has sometimes had to turn down time with friends to meet coursework deadlines. But that challenge has brought an important lesson: planning ahead can make room for both responsibilities and the people who matter most.

The advice from Oren for students considering Middle College?

“Take time to decide, understand the commitment and be ready to work hard. If you are good at committing and you feel like giving yourself a challenge, then I absolutely recommend it.”

For this SCHS senior, Middle College is more than earning college credit early. It is an opportunity to grow, discover future possibilities and build the skills to take the next step with confidence.

Oren Grijalva, SCHS Middle College Student