Seven high school students to earn UNG degrees

After participating in the state's Move On When Ready (MOWR) program, seven students will cross the stage as graduates of the University of North Georgia (UNG), six of them before they receive their high school diplomas.

MOWR allows eligible high school students the opportunity to enroll in college or university prior to their high school graduation and to take courses that grant both college and high school credit. Tuition, books and mandatory fees are paid for by the MOWR program.

"UNG's dual enrollment program continues to flourish, and a primary reason is the dedication of students who push themselves to complete an associate's degree before accepting their high school diplomas," said Charles Bell, dual enrollment coordinator for UNG. "To achieve this goal, students must be motivated to learn challenging coursework, possess strong academic skills, and know how to take advantage of the support offered by parents, counselors, and the UNG campus community. The time management and study skills learned through participation in the MOWR program, as well as confidence gained, are invaluable assets for the continued success of these students' academic careers."

For Wilson Quinton, who currently attends Johnson High School in Gainesville while taking classes on UNG's Gainesville Campus, the journey started when one of his close friends got into the MOWR program.

"I spoke with a high school counselor and saw there was a very good opportunity for me in the MOWR program, and I didn't want to let it pass," Quinton said. "It was a bit of a strange transition from high school to college, mainly because I really had to figure out how to manage my time, but I've enjoyed the college courses more than my high school classes. The biggest payoff for me has been figuring out how I learn best. After earning my associate degree, I plan on returning immediately for a bachelor's in business administration."

By challenging themselves, Quinton and his MOWR peers saved tuition and also greatly reduced the time traditionally required to earn a four-year degree.

"These seven will have cut in half the time necessary to earn a bachelor's degree, enabling them to pursue their interests in research, internships, and other learning opportunities sooner than many of their peers," Bell said. "They will be able to complete graduate degrees in their early 20's, setting them up for a lifetime of success. They perfectly demonstrate the ongoing benefits of participating in MOWR."

This year's MOWR graduates also include Grace Ainsworth of Flowery Branch High School, Chrystian Bis of Johnson High School, Robert Durand of Stephens County High School, Christie Taylor of White County High School, Kelsie Gustason of Union County High School, and Maggie Sullens of North Forsyth High School.