ECHS Graduate Discovers Calling in Science, Sets Sights on Medical School
Several years ago, Metro Nashville Public Schools and Nashville State Community College
created an opportunity for Davidson County students to earn both a high school diploma
and a certificate or associate degree at the same time.
Early College High School (ECHS), a National Blue Ribbon School and the only fully immersive dual enrollment program in Metro Nashville Public Schools, allows qualified students the opportunity to attend high school at the White Bridge campus of Nashville State free of charge.
During their freshman and sophomore years, students attend honors high school classes. As they move forward, they can enter college coursework by following one of seven paths toward an associate degree.
Maria Figueroa graduated from Early College High School with an Associate of Science in Health Sciences degree.
Maria comes from a family where she and her siblings are all first-generation college students. Originally intending to study music and audio production, she found an aptitude and interest in pursuing science and healthcare and is now in her first semester at Belmont University, where she is majoring in biochemistry and molecular biology.
What was your experience like as an ECHS student?
I don’t think I would have become the person I am currently without my experience at ECHS. I originally wanted to go to school for audio production, but now I’m pursuing a career in STEM. I found my love for science in my biology and chemistry classes. Then, when I took my microbiology class for my associate degree, my love for science was solidified.
How did you learn about ECHS?
In 8th grade, they did a presentation showing all the optional schools the district provides, and Early College was one of the schools I looked at, and I wanted to give myself an opportunity to try something new. Early College was the choice for me.
How did earning college credit or an associate degree before graduation benefit you?
Earning my degree benefited me more than just getting ahead in my education. It allowed me to learn what it truly took to get through college and if it was the right fit for me. From ECHS, I knew I could manage higher education.
How did ECHS and Nashville State prepare you for life after high school?
I was able to learn the responsibilities that come with being a college student while I still had the guidance from my high school teachers and admin. Also, during freshman and sophomore year, there were already some expectations that are found in college courses, and throughout our first two years we learned how to advocate for ourselves, so once we got to our college classes, we would be ready for that responsibility.
What advice would you give to a student considering ECHS or enrolled now?
My advice for students thinking of going to ECHS is to just try it out, because whether you continue high school at ECHS or you don’t, you will still form a good foundation for you to continue high school and college. I would also say to students still in high school and those at ECHS to get involved and try every opportunity that is given to you. I was part of student council at ECHS for two years. Then I was part of SGA at NSCC as the representative for ECHS students. I was also part of the yearbook staff throughout high school, and my last two years I served as the chief editor. These clubs and roles helped me enjoy my time at ECHS and added to my high school experience.
What are your future goals?
Some of my future goals are to graduate with my bachelor’s in biochemistry and molecular biology. Then, pursue medical school and hopefully become an OBGYN once I graduate. Hopefully all while balancing my personal life and living life to the fullest.'
Photo courtesy of Maria Figueroa
