News Summary
Nathan Wooley, a senior at Dixie High School in Due West, is excelling as a dual enrollment student at Piedmont Technical College while pursuing his firefighting dreams. Completing firefighter recruit school and volunteering with the Antreville Fire Department, Nathan continues a family legacy in firefighting. Not only is he balancing his high school workload, but he also maintains a 4.0 GPA in Mechatronics Technology and works part-time. His commitment to education and community service exemplifies his dedication and enthusiasm for learning and helping others.
Exciting Times in Due West: Nathan Wooley Juggles Firefighting Dreams and College Courses
In the heart of Due West, a remarkable journey is underway for a dedicated senior named Nathan Wooley from Dixie High School. This ambitious teenager has not only completed his firefighter recruit school but is also making waves as a volunteer with the Antreville Fire Department. Coming from a family with a rich history in firefighting—his father, Robert Wooley, and brother, Nick, have both donned the firefighter uniform—Nathan is stepping into the fire service with a passion that truly runs in the family.
Blazing Through Education
Nathan’s appetite for knowledge is equally impressive. As a dual enrollment student at Piedmont Technical College, he is pursuing a degree in Mechatronics Technology. What’s fascinating is that he is taking some classes that his father once attended—it’s a family tradition, but with a twist! Nathan is on track to earn both his high school diploma and an associate degree from PTC this spring, an accomplishment that speaks volumes about his hard work and commitment.
For those unfamiliar with dual enrollment, it’s a fantastic program designed for high school juniors and seniors, allowing them to earn college credits alongside their high school coursework. PTC offers a variety of classes for students in the program, ranging from general education subjects like English, history, and trigonometry to specialized courses in fields like mechatronics, which encompasses fundamentals of electronics, pneumatics, hydraulics, mechanics, IT, computers, and robotics.
School, Firefighting, and More
Nathan’s typical school day is nothing short of busy. He attends morning classes at the Greenwood Campus of PTC, followed by afternoon classes at Dixie High. If that isn’t enough, he also dedicates time to his firefighting duties and works a part-time job at Drennon’s Market in Iva. This whirlwind of responsibilities does not faze him; in fact, Nathan enjoys being active and staying engaged in multiple areas of his life.
Recently recognized for his “outstanding work ethic” by his instructor Wayne Miles, Nathan holds an impressive 4.0 GPA and has even made the President’s List at PTC. Following in his father’s footsteps, who also graduated from the Mechatronics program with a perfect score, Nathan proves that dedication and hard work can lead to remarkable achievements.
A Path for Future Scholars
The dual enrollment program at PTC has become a game-changer for students across the region. Hundreds of young scholars are already reaping the benefits, earning high school and college credits simultaneously, giving them a significant head start in their academic careers. Students interested in joining should be aware that there are specific routes to participate, including traditional dual enrollment at their high school, OnDECK classes on a PTC campus, Middle College partnerships for earning over 48 college credits, or early admission for students looking to earn PTC credit separately from high school connections.
Those interested in exploring dual enrollment options can connect with their school counselors during individual graduation plan meetings to find the best fit. And let’s not forget the inclusion of home school students in this wonderful opportunity.
Encouraging Peers to Take the Leap
Nathan’s enthusiasm for dual enrollment knows no bounds, and he actively encourages his classmates and peers to consider this path if given the chance. The things he has learned and the experiences he has gained make him a steadfast advocate for the program.
So, for anyone interested in exploring the benefits of dual enrollment at PTC, they can easily reach out to the PTC Dual Enrollment Office for more information at (864) 941-8315. With opportunities like this available, there’s no better time than now to take the leap and invest in an exciting future.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Local High School Senior Balances Firefighting and College Studies
Additional Resources
- Index Journal: Dual Enrollment Student Strives to Succeed at PTC
- Wikipedia: Dual Enrollment
- WV News: Tucker Outlines Higher Education Concerns
- Google Search: Higher Education Concerns West Virginia
- WV Metro News: State Higher Education Policy Commission Update
- Google Scholar: College Enrollment
- Times Herald: University of West Georgia Reaches Enrollment Milestone
- Encyclopedia Britannica: University
- Fresno Bee: Education Lab
- Google News: Education Policy
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