"I got the chance to go to an education conference in Albany to represent GV BOCES and the Early College High School—and honestly, I thought I was going to be nervous. But once I got there, it felt really peaceful. It was like stepping away from everything here and being able to talk about my experience.

I chose this program because I want to go into the law field. Instead of six years of college, this program helps reduce the cost and takes about two years off college. When I get to GCC, I’ll be taking classes like criminal law, family law, and other legal studies.

Going to Albany was a big deal for me. I think it left a good impact—seeing how the staff here trusted me to represent the program and talk about it. It helped me grow and realize they really believe in me.

My favorite part was meeting new people from other BOCES regions. We talked about why we chose this program, and how some people don’t choose it because they’d rather have a traditional high school experience—but this is our high school experience. We’re going into college early, and we’re thinking about our future, not just the present.

This is another high school—the work is hard, but it’s preparing you early. If you really want this, you persevere and give it all you have. And in the end, you realize it was all worth it.”