Oscar Agueda: An Early College Graduate's Journey
Oscar Agueda's story is a testament to the power of early college programs and the dedication of students who seize the opportunity to accelerate their education. At 18 years old, Agueda achieved the remarkable feat of earning a Bachelor of Social Work degree from Colorado State University Pueblo (CSU Pueblo) even before receiving his high school diploma. His journey exemplifies the benefits of concurrent enrollment programs and the potential for young individuals to make significant contributions to their communities at an early age.
Concurrent Enrollment and Early College Programs
Agueda's path to early graduation began at Colorado Early Colleges (CEC) in Colorado Springs, a high school designed to help students earn college credits while fulfilling their high school requirements. Through CSU Pueblo’s partnership with his high school, Agueda took classes at Pikes Peak State College, where the university rented space. The arrangement allowed him to pursue his degree while staying in Colorado Springs. His school covered the costs, too. Concurrent enrollment programs like the one Agueda participated in provide high school students with the opportunity to take college courses, earning credit that counts towards both their high school diploma and a college degree. This model allows motivated students to get a head start on their higher education, potentially saving time and money.
Agueda's Academic Journey
Agueda started taking college classes when he was 14. While most of his classmates will graduate with associate degrees, Agueda went further. Agueda completed 120 credit hours through CSU Pueblo’s concurrent enrollment program. Ironically Agueda received his college diploma from CSU-Pueblo on May 17, and a high school diploma from high school on May 19.
Despite his academic success, Agueda's journey wasn't without its challenges. He recalled struggling with a philosophy ethics class during his freshman year that challenged his tendency to see things in black and white. “There were assignments that asked questions where there’s no clear right or wrong answer,” he said. “It was a little tricky for me because I tend to see things as binary. The experience taught him about different perspectives. It’s a lesson that connects to his future career goals.
Balancing College and High School Life
Earning a college degree didn’t mean missing out on typical high school experiences. Agueda went to prom the Saturday before his interview and regularly hangs out with friends at restaurants. His parents feel “very relieved” about not having to help with college costs, Agueda said.
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Future Aspirations and Community Service
Starting college early means Agueda can begin serving his community sooner. He sees those extra years as time he can dedicate to helping others. “It just gives me more time to serve the community,” he said. “Having most of my schooling done basically gives me more time to serve the community. He plans to continue his education by pursuing a Master of Social Work at CSU Pueblo in the fall.
Agueda’s story is an inspiring example of how students can leverage opportunities like concurrent enrollment to achieve their academic goals and make a positive impact on their communities. His dedication and perseverance serve as a model for other young people who aspire to excel in their education and contribute to the world around them.
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