COLUMBUS, Miss. (CMSD) – Kelsey Jordan and Ivyanna Hines can tell their classmates what to expect in college. The recent Columbus High School graduates also have an associate’s degree from East Mississippi Community College.
The duo was the only two seniors in the CHS Class of 2026 to earn a high school diploma and an associate’s degree.
“My parents really pushed me to do dual enrollment while in high school. Then I found out I could get an associate’s degree, and I just really wanted to get ahead,” said Jordan.
“At first, I didn’t realize that I could get my associate’s (degree). My teachers really pushed me, and I’m glad. Now, I won’t have to do my basics at Mississippi State. I will be going in as a junior,” said Hines.
Jordan and Hines both started taking courses at EMCC the summer before their 11th-grade year. Both graduates recommend the dual enrollment path if students want to get a jump start on their college career. However, they quickly saw a big difference between high school and college.
“I did most of my classes online. So, I couldn’t go up and talk to a teacher. I had to send messages to keep up with my courses or to get help figuring out a problem,” said Jordan.
“I learned about deadlines. Our instructors set a deadline, and they expected you to meet it. There was no begging for an extension,” said Hines.
Jordan and Hines will go to Mississippi State University this fall. For them, the feeling of graduation and the next chapter in their lives is just starting to sink in.
“It’s very surreal. During the last week before graduation, I was back in the building (CHS) and it felt good to be here and see my friends,” said Jordan.
“It feels great. I’ve already graduated two times. It makes me believe that I can accomplish anything that I set my mind to. I’m really happy,” said Hines.
112 CHS seniors participated in dual enrollment credit. They completed 641 courses, which equals 2,080 college hours for the Class of 2026.
