Kent State at Stark’s admissions counselors explained the College Credit Plus (CCP) program to over 460 students and parents in the Main Hall auditorium, and a second overflow room, Thursday evening.

 CCP allows middle school and high school students to earn college credit before graduating. This was the fourth and final informational session held.

 Kent Stark holds the informational sessions every year to update students and parents on any changes to the program.

“I took classes last year, and I’m looking forward to taking more classes,” said Justin Prater, an incoming senior at Southeast High School. “It’s a way to save money.”

CCP at Kent Stark accepted about 1,000 students for the fall semester — 300 of which are taking classes exclusively at Stark’s campus, rather than at their respective high schools.

Jesmin Akter, enrollment manager and admissions counselor for CCP, said students participating in the program receive college credits for free, exposure to college level classes and knowledge of the campus, all while still in high school.

“Our numbers have almost doubled since just last year,” Akter said. “Students see their brother or sister doing this program and how it helped them, so they want to do it too.”

Akter attributes the rise in applicants to Kent Stark Dean Denise A. Seachrist’s addition of 8 new high school partnerships, allowing more students to take college classes.  

During the session, Akter told students their responsibilities while participating in CCP, where and how to take placement tests, how to meet with their advisor and how to schedule classes.

According to the Ohio Department Higher Education, Kent Stark had 453 CCP students enrolled for the 2015-2016 academic year. There were 1,251 courses attempted and 1,227 courses completed. 

“I’m so excited for him,” said Diana Prater, Justin Prater’s mother. “His high school has prepared him well, he did good last year, so I know he will be fine this year.”

Elizabeth Harrington is a regionals reporter, contact her at [email protected].