A Head Start on College

Jillian Zinski, Chartiers Valley Class of 2012

Imagine stepping foot on campus for your first day of college and you’re already ahead of the game. For many Chartiers Valley alumni, it’s a realistic situation. 

Take Jillian Zinski. Jillian graduated from Chartiers Valley in June 2012 and began at Slippery Rock University in the fall with 20 credits already under her belt – thanks to Advanced Placement (AP) and College in High School (CIHS) classes. 

According to Jillian, there are several benefits to taking advanced courses in high school – college credit included. Jillian entered college as a second semester freshman. 

“I can worry less about my basic requirements and focus more on my major classes,” said Jillian.

Jillian is pursuing a dual major in early childhood education and special education, which often takes an extra semester to complete.  

“Since I had one semester technically complete before I even started school, I might be able to finish the program in four years,” said Jillian. 

Jillian compared the AP classes she took at Chartiers Valley to her college courses. Like a college course, an AP course is fast-paced and a student’s success often depends on them keeping up with the readings and homework. Another similarity is how much material is covered in class versus what students must learn outside of the classroom.

“Most of the time, everything would not be covered in class, but all of the resources would be provided, so that all of the material could be learned by the student, with or without the teacher,” explained Jillian. “In a lot of ways, AP courses are preparation for college.” 

While college preparation can be a benefit, it can also be a challenge. 

“It is an adjustment to go from a normal high school class where everything is taught and handed to you, to a more independent style of learning,” said Jillian. “What used to be considered “good” could easily be considered mediocre in AP or College In High School.”

Despite the challenges, Jillian recommends taking advanced classes. 

“Don’t be afraid of AP and College In High School (CIHS) courses,” advised Jillian. “They may be considered advanced, but they are good prep for college. The credits will be worth all the hard work in the end!”

“Lastly, enjoy high school! Four years goes by very fast, but the memories stay forever,” she said.

Gregory Markiw, also a 2012 CV alum, agrees. 

Gregory Markiw, Chartiers Valley Class of 2012

“Enjoy your time at CV! It is truly the best all-around school to go to,” said Gregory. “Also, take advantage of CIHS credits, especially if you know you’ll be going to school in the Pittsburgh area.”

Gregory certainly took his own advice. He began at the University of Pittsburgh with 27 college credits – a combination of AP and CIHS classes. 

According to Gregory, the AP and CIHS classes were definitely more challenging compared to other classes offered at Chartiers Valley, but they were worth it. In addition to advance classes preparing Gregory for his college course load, Chartiers Valley also helped prepare him for his life after high school. 

“Chartiers Valley helped me to develop the necessary social skills to function on my own in an environment drastically more diverse than in high school,” said Gregory. “Also, getting involved in as many different extracurricular activities as I could in high school set a good habit when I got to college. I’ve had no problem working with others and getting involved in various campus organizations.”

If you'd like more information about AP or CIHS courses at Chartiers Valley, contact our Student Services Department.  


Related Links:

Student Services website | More about CIHS