Iowa Valley senior talks about college classes

MARENGO — A senior at Iowa Valley High School was featured in the Kirkwood Community College Iowa County fall newsletter.

Claire Smolik answered questions about how taking college credit courses while in high school were a benefit to her.

Q. Where do you go to high school?

A. Iowa Valley Jr. Sr. High School, Marengo.

Q. When did you start taking college credit classes?

A. Junior year.

Q. Which courses and/or academies have you enjoyed the most and why?

A. I have enjoyed psychology the most because psychology is so interesting to me, and the human brain is fascinating.

Q. What has been the most surprising thing you have learned after taking college credit coursework?

I have learned that while balancing high school courses and college courses, I am able to put forward my best effort and excel in each course I take. I have found a great sense of determination within myself while completing these courses.

Q. Who at Kirkwood has made a lasting impact on you? Why?

A. My ASL instructor Brenda Falgier has made an impact on me by always pushing me to do better and being patient with me.

Q. How do you feel taking college credit classes better prepares students for their futures?

I think that taking college classes in high school is super beneficial for students because it shows them that not every teacher is the same.

Teachers within a high school all work around each other, but taking college classes teaches you skills like planning and prioritizing. Being able to work at your own pace for the most part is very nice but also teaches you not to procrastinate.

It also is a great opportunity to get a feel for some harder classes.

Q. Anything else you would like us to know?

Get a head start as early as you can. Kirkwood college credit classes are a super easy way to get a head start on college to take away some pressure and stress once you advance to the college environment.