2 Students Earn High School Diploma And Associate Degree

DOUGLAS COUNTY, GA -- When Alexandra Gaytan and Cristian Gonzalez walk across the stage for New Manchester High School’s graduation on May 26, it will be Cristian’s second graduation this month and the first of two for Alexandra.

Both students put in hours of hard work over the last two years so that they could receive a diploma not only from their high school, but also from college. Cristian received his associate degree from West Georgia Technical College on May 9, and Alexandra is set to receive her associate degree from Georgia Military College in East Point in June.

Alexandra’s journey to her associate degree began in July of 2017 when she started taking college classes through Georgia’s Dual Enrollment program. For her senior year, she enrolled in college courses full time. Her classes count toward her high school diploma as well as college. Some of her classes at Georgia Military College included four biology classes, two chemistry classes, two anatomy classes, U.S. history, pre-calculus, and college algebra. The cum laude graduate will receive her associate degree in science and biology.

Although she didn’t step into a classroom at New Manchester High School this year, Alexandra kept up with her friends and supported them by attending their school events. She also attended prom.

Alexandra’s plans include enrolling at Ft. Valley State University in August with the future goal of becoming a veterinarian.

Cristian dipped his toe into Dual Enrollment when he signed up to take criminal justice classes at Douglas County’s College and Career Institute (CCI) his sophomore year. He spent half the day at New Manchester High School and half the day at the CCI. The criminal justice classes did more than give him college credit; they solidified his career goals. After initially wanting to be a police detective, he turned his focus to the courtroom. He now plans to attend law school and become a criminal defense attorney.

Toward the end of his sophomore year, Cristian’s counselor at the CCI, Blayne West, pointed out to Cristian that he could earn his associate degree if he pursued dual enrollment classes for his remaining two high school years. The idea of free college classes, free textbooks, and getting ahead in school appealed to him.

In addition to the criminal justice classes, Cristian has earned college credit for two chemistry classes, one U.S. and two world history classes, three literature classes, and four math classes. “The experience has prepared me for when I go off on my own next year,” said Cristian. “I understand the responsibility that comes with college classes and working hard toward a goal.”

Cristian will attend Georgia State University in the fall with a pre-law emphasis.

Both Alexandra and Cristian will enter college in August well ahead of the other typical freshmen. Because they will be attending colleges within the University System of Georgia, all of their credits will transfer.

Alexandra has this advice for incoming high school students: “I believe hard work and determination is necessary for high school, college and in life. With drive and determination, you can accomplish any goal or dream you want to achieve.”

“We are so excited and proud of these students,” said New Manchester High School Principal Tekmekia Gilchrist. “They have taken advantage of a great program and put themselves well on their way to a successful future. I can’t wait to hear all about their achievements at the next level.”