Saluda High School Senior Readies for College with Dual Enrollment

Hector Ortiz already has plans for his future. And he knows the dual enrollment classes he is taking through Piedmont Technical College will help him get there.

The rising Saluda High School senior plans to head to the University of South Carolina after high school. His goal is to pursue his bachelor’s degree in biology and chemistry for medical school.

“I decided to take dual enrollment classes because I wanted to get the college experience and get credit while I’m in it,” Ortiz said. “The classes really challenged me to organize my time.”

Ortiz has completed 21 hours and is enrolled for seven more this fall. He said the classes he’s taken has given him a clear understanding of what to expect when he gets to college.

“At the high school, the teacher may lecture you and that’s probably all you’ll need to know,” Ortiz said. “The dual enrollment classes are more fast-paced and more self-paced. You have to learn how to study more on your own.”

Not only are the classes preparing him for the college experience, Ortiz said he believes the experience he is gaining will change how the admissions representatives will look at him.

“I think the transfer aspect will be easier,” he said. “You have credits and experience, so that would make you more desirable. It could even open the door for more scholarships and financial aid.”

As a potential first generation college student, Ortiz is proud of himself and thankful for being guided by his family and teachers.

“My family has been so supportive of me and this choice,” he said. “Getting to college would have been a challenge, but the dual enrollment classes will help me get there.”

For more information, contact the Dual Enrollment Office at (864) 941-8352 or go to www.ptc.edu/dualenrollment.