UHS Early Graduates

As many Urbana High School seniors are busy applying to college and relishing the last few months of their high school career, some students have already decided to graduate in December.

Some seniors — including Patrick Shea, Jack Parrott, Emily Hutchinson, Sara Smith and Danielle Wargolet — will graduate a semester early and go on to pursue college degrees, travel, and career-oriented opportunities. Students must notify a guidance counselor of this decision in order to work out the logistics for completing the required classes (45 credit hours and any additional requirements by the State of Illinois).

This step signifies a transition into independence and has further benefits in regards to gaining a head start on the next phase in life.

UHS Counselor Marc Solodky said, “The student has an additional semester to go to college and earn credits sooner. Students who are working will have a head start on gaining an additional year to earn an income.”

In addition, Jessica Sopa — another counselor at UHS — cited some students’ desire to participate in the Rotary Exchange program as motivation for graduating early. This is the case for Jack Parrott, a senior who will be living in Argentina following his graduation this December.

“This program can give students additional world experience and possibly make them even more interesting to college’s admission committees,” Sopa continued.

Regardless of when one graduates, everyone who leaves Urbana High School to venture out in the world and pursue their dreams will carry memories of their time spent in high school. Graduating early can be a thrilling option for students who have already established their goals for the future.