As 5th period ends, Madeleine Schieffer ‘26 logs into Canvas to start her college DMACC classes. Schieffer is one of many senior students who are dual-enrolled into Des Moines Area Community College Career Advantage Program, and spends half their school day taking DMACC classes that align with their chosen degree.
“The DMACC career advantage program is for kids who want to get a head start in a certain field. Personally, I’m in the health occupations course but there are things like diesel mechanics, forensic science, EMT, Culinary arts etc. They have different courses to introduce you to the profession that you’re interested in,” Schieffer said.
Students have the opportunity to gain college credits during their school day, taking up the last three periods of the day. These classes give them a head start in their college career and get them another step closer to gaining their dream degree. By doing this, students save money through this program, costing them nothing for college credits. Kirk Pollman, the DMACC Career Advantage Advisor, can counsel students about this program.
“College credits give them a jump start on their academic and career goals, while saving money on college courses. High school students can enroll and complete Career Advantage classes either at their home high school, at DMACC or online. To be eligible students must meet required proficiency measures prior to enrollment” states Pollman.
For Schieffer, the program came to her attention when her counselor introduced her to it her junior year. Students may not consider these options for various reasons, how much it benefits you, or how much money you truly save with this program. However for Schieffer, she is able to work towards her career goals by just taking a couple of classes. These classes can help those who need lots of school to earn their degree.
“My post graduate goals are to go to dmacc for two years and get my certification to be a phlebotomist. then continue my education at iowa state and eventually get a job at the VA working as a lab technician” says Schieffer.
