Helping Students Get Ahead: A Conversation with Lisa Petry on the Launch of UNH Early College Online
As the demand for flexible, affordable, and forward-thinking education continues to grow, the University of New Hampshire College of Professional Studies Online (CPSO) has launched a powerful new opportunity for motivated high school students: UNH Early College Online. Developed in collaboration with the Virtual Learning Academy Charter School (VLACS), this dual enrollment program allows students to earn both high school and college credit at the same time.
We spoke with Lisa Petry, the newly appointed Dual Enrollment Coordinator and longtime student advocate, to learn more about what makes this initiative so impactful. With a background in school counseling and a passion for helping students discover their potential, Lisa shared what excites her most about the program, how it benefits families and schools alike, and what students can expect as they take their first steps toward college-level learning.
“Some students want to know what it's like to take a college course. Others may have a strong focus on their future career and want to get ahead. Whatever the reason for taking early college courses, there are so many advantages.”
The Benefits of UNH Early College Online
- Experience college-level coursework while in high school
- Earn college credit from UNH to get a jump start on pre-requisite courses and general education requirements.
- Free tuition for college courses. Books and resources will be included. An administrative fee of $150.00 will be the only cost associated with a 4-credit course. Students and families will save a significant amount of money.
- Credits can be used to help with the college transition, accelerate degree programs or focus on a double major.
- Time Management, study skills, and college expectations are introduced earlier to dual enrollment students.
- Exploration of discovery courses can lead students to a decision on a major or a desired career path earlier.
- Access to college resources while in high school.
- High School benefits: dual enrollment courses can support difficult scheduling conflicts at the high school level.
As a mother of four and a school counselor, Lisa shared why she’s excited to get this program off the ground and be a part of it:
“Why did I want to be a part of this? I consider myself a lifelong learner. As a school counselor for many years, my passion has always been supporting students to help them explore and reach their academic and personal goals. UNH Early College Online has the potential to open new doors and create equity amongst high school students motivated to seek new experiences, new knowledge, and personal growth. I am excited to be a part of this process.”
Lisa’s Role in Helping High School Students Take the First Step Toward College
Lisa has been working with the UNH CPSO team since the early stages of development of UNH Early College Online, working across departments like administration, advising, student support, curriculum development, admissions, marketing, and various other offices, working toward the common goal of getting this program off the ground. She has also collaborated with VLACS, a partner who is familiar to her from her former role as a school counselor.
Lisa will play a big role in ensuring UNH Early College Online runs smoothly and helps students on their journey to completing their dual enrollment courses. She supports all dual enrollment student inquiries and helps manage the student database. She also acts as a liaison between students and VLACS if needed and between students and other UNH departments. Ultimately, her mission is to ensure every dual enrollment student is happy and successful. You’ll also find Lisa working with school counselors around the state to promote the program!
“As a parent of four children of my own, I am thrilled that this opportunity has been introduced to students and families. The flexibility that online learning provides helps with challenging high school schedules. Families will enjoy significant savings at a time when tuition continues to rise for college coursework.”
Lisa offered advice for high school students interested in UNH Early College Online:
“Remember that knowledge is power. Ask questions if you have them. There are so many people excited about this opportunity. We are all here to help you if you need help!”
Have a Question About UNH Early College Online?
Email Lisa at: early.college@unh.edu