Registration Open for High School Aspirations at URock

Rockland, Maine - High school juniors and seniors who want to get a jump on college level work may take college classes at University College at Rockland through the High School Aspirations Program (HSA). The program is funded through both the University of Maine System and the Department of Education. Eligible students include those who are currently attending Maine public high schools, whether private or public, or those being home schooled in Maine homes.

Traditional high school students must have school and parental approval, a minimum GPA of B or better, and at least junior standing. Adult education students must have approval from the adult education director and/or counselor and must have maintained a B or above average in their adult education course work. Students can take any academic course for which they have met the course prerequisites as long as there is space available, up to a maximum of two courses or six credit hours (whichever is greater) per semester during their junior and senior years.

The next semester begins at University College at Rockland on Monday, January 12.  However, those
interested in the HSA Program are encouraged to apply early as many classes do fill.

According to URock's Director, Deborah Meehan, HSA students typically take general education courses that will transfer into most college degree programs. "We recommend that students take courses like College Writing, Introduction to Psychology, Public Speaking, US History and sometimes a science or math course," said Meehan. She added that this program, "is a terrific gift from the university to Maine high school students."

URock typically enrolls about 50 HSA students each term.

"It's known as dual enrollment," said Meehan. "That means the course counts for high school credit while students are earning college credit."

Meehan noted that enrollment and success in a college class while in high school can often invigorate a high school student into thinking seriously about college. "It can be a tremendous confidence booster," she noted. She added that college admissions officers look very favorably on those applicants who have already proven successful in college level work.

Interested students should schedule an appointment with an academic advisor at URock by calling 596-6906 to discuss the program.