Running Start

Beginning college early

The decision to begin college early is an important one. The most successful college students are generally motivated individuals who:

• work independently,
• take initiative,
• have good study skills,
• possess a high level of self-discipline and
• are able to complete a variety of assignments with little directions from their instructors.

Parents and students should consider whether or not Running Start would appropriately meet the student’s needs. When students take college classes their grades (good or bad) become a permanent part of their record for both high school and college. Once the options have been explored, the student may make an informed decision about whether or not to enroll in the program.

Program benefits

Running Start offers a number of benefits for students prepared to begin their college careers while still completing the requirements to graduate from high school. Eligible students have the option to:

• Take courses not offered at their high school
• Take challenging advanced courses
• Ease the transition from home to a four-year college or university
• Experience personal growth in decision-making and responsibility while creating their own future educational plans
• Save up to two years' worth of college tuition
• Flourish in a different educational setting from the traditional high school
• Experience the diversity of college, in the characteristics, ideas and abilities of their fellow students and instructors

Program limitations

As with any program, there are some limitations to Running Start’s ability to meet the needs of every individual who enrolls. Some of these considerations include:

• The independence, increased level of individual responsibility, and the speed of college classes.
• High schools provide a social network and social development experiences not as readily accessible at Pierce College. Running Start students may participate in all student activities except for sports, such as college clubs and student government.
• Books, fees and transportation are the responsibility of the student. Books alone can cost $150.00 or more per class. Students who qualify for free or reduced lunch may utilize the Running Start loan program.
• College schedules may conflict with high school classes or extracurricular activities (sports, drama, music, etc.).
• The college operates on a quarter system, which is different from the high school academic calendar. Holidays and vacation periods are frequently different. Students are expected to attend classes at the college even though their high schools may not be in session. Careful planning must occur in order to avoid conflicts with family and school activities.
• The student's high school is the final authority on high school graduation requirements. The student must work closely with a high school counselor to insure graduation requirements will be met. Some schools may not allow students to participate in graduation ceremonies if their college classes are not completed by the date of graduation. Check with the high school for their policies.
• Preferred classes frequently fill quickly, and students are not guaranteed space in classes until they are officially registered for the quarter.