As we begin the second semester of the school year, the prospect of starting college in just eight short months is becoming a reality for most seniors, but some have already been there.
 
Sierra College offers an academic enrichment program for high school students who are 16 years old or older, have completed their sophomore year, and have maintained a grade point average of 2.7. This program allows high school students to challenge themselves with college level classes, gain college credit, and take classes not offered at Rocklin High School.

"I am taking a beginners art class. I decided to take it because I needed a creative outlet and I wanted to work on my drawing skills. Also, I wanted to get priority for the fall semester" said Senior Brittney Borowski.

Although not every class is available to high school students, the majority are. There are many more elective options offered in specific areas of interest that are not offered at RHS. Beside electives, general educations classes are also offered for those wanting to move ahead or review a previous class.

Senior Janis Chung took Intermediate Algebra at Sierra.

"I wanted to solidify my base knowledge before moving on to a higher level of math" said Chung.

There are many advantages to taking a class at Sierra during high school, but there are also some drawbacks.

"My favorite class last year was AP Psych and it presented me with an interesting challenge every period. The class I took at Sierra (Social Psychology) didn't provide much of a challenge at all. It was much easier than AP Psych, but because of that it was less interesting" said Senior Keely O’Brien.

Because Sierra is a junior college the teachers may not be as interested in the subject they teach as most teachers at Rocklin High School. Also, some AP classes offered at RHS are more difficult than beginner level classes offered there.

All in all, whether the class was enjoyable or easy college credit was earned, seniors have benefited from their experiences at Sierra College.