Grad Earns High School Diploma, Associate’s Degree Via Dual Enrollment Program

Nicholas Natale said he was given the opportunity of a lifetime when Montgomery County Community College advanced his education and gave him career experience.

By the time Natale graduated from Pottsgrove High School last month, he already had an associate’s degree in liberal studies from MCCC, said Alana J. Mauger, director of communications, Montgomery County Community College, via e-mail.

As a dual enrollment student, Natale, 15, took classes at MCCC's West Campus in Pottstown.

This fall, he will start classes as a junior at Harrisburg University where he plans to study software engineering and analysis, Mauger said. 

"The Dual Enrollment program was also a great way for Natale to transition to college," Mauger said. "In addition to being a member of the Dual Enrollment Student Association and the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, Natale worked at the College as a peer mentor in the Student Success Center, assisting students with registration and giving tours, among other responsibilities."

Natale’s commitment to academics and service earned him a spot as a member of the All-Pennsylvania Academic Team by the Pennsylvania Commission for Community Colleges, USA Today and Phi Theta Kappa, Mauger said.

"High school students who are age 15 or older and meet the pre-requisites for the course they want to take are eligible to apply," Mauger said. "Classes can be taken West Campus in Pottstown and at Central Campus in Blue Bell or online through e-Learning."

Parents and students interested in the Dual Enrollment program at the College can visit www.mc3.edu/admissions/dualenrollment for more information, as well as the application and registration forms.

To learn more, www.mc3.edu/admissions/visiting.