Branch County Early College students graduate from KCC

Kellogg Community College's commencement ceremony was May 12 and among the graduates were several Branch County Early College students.

Kaylea Veysey, who plans to attend Central Michigan University, earned a degree in general studies. Veyse, determined to earn as many college credits possible, began dual enrollment as a freshman. She gave up other electives to make room for college courses. Her career goal is to be an advocate, either as a social worker, in behavioral health or as an immigration policy advocate.

Carson Perz, who will attend Michigan State University, earned a degree in general studies. He took many AP courses at Coldwater High School and was able to earn qualifying scores on the AP exams to earn college credit. He plans to study international law.

Jaden Swartz, who will attend Western Michigan University to study psychology, earned a degree in general studies. She chose to be a full-time college student during her traditional senior year. She was able to participate in all high school activities, while taking classes at KCC.

Rachael Tucker, who will attend Western Michigan University, earned a degree in general Studies. Tucker enjoys the online learning environment, using it for the majority of her courses. Unsure about a direction for college, Tucker took a variety of courses designed to help her zone in on her interests.

Branch County Early College is a partnership with Branch Intermediate School District, Kellogg Community College and each Branch County school district.

Students may apply to the program at the end of their 10th grade year and typically begin coursework in 11th or 12th grade.

Students earn an average of 45 credits while in this program as they often want to keep the plans they made for their high school experience.

Over half of the students attend Branch Area Careers Center, and many also take advantage of AP coursework offered in their local high school, as well as favorite electives such as band, art and foreign languages.

For more information about applying to Branch County Early College, contact Jennifer Searls, searlsj@branch-isd.org or (269) 420-7739.

This article originally appeared on The Daily Reporter: Branch County Early College students graduate from KCC