Blog and videos produced by Alexandria Woodruff, Rio Salado College Student Intern
At just 17 years old, Madelyn Bailey, a senior at Tempe Union High School District’s Desert Vista high School, is already on an accelerated path toward her future. As a dual enrollment student, she is set to graduate from high school with both her diploma and an associate degree, giving her a significant head start on her college education. This fall, she will be attending the University of Arizona in Tucson to pursue a bachelor’s degree in psychology, which she plans to complete by the age of 19. Though she is still exploring her exact career path, one thing is certain—she wants to dedicate her life to helping others and making a meaningful impact. With an interest in improving people’s lives, she sees psychology as a gateway to understanding and supporting those in need.
Beyond academics, Bailey has big dreams of traveling the world and experiencing new cultures, all while continuing to make a difference. By completing her degree at a younger age, she is allowing herself more time to explore additional opportunities, including the possibility of earning a master’s degree in the future. Her story is a perfect example of how dual enrollment can provide students with the opportunity to fast-track their education, save money on tuition, and gain valuable experience before stepping into their careers. Through this interview, we’ll dive deeper into her journey, what she has learned from her experience, and how dual enrollment has helped shape her future goals.
Watch her share her dual enrollment story in this series of videos that begin today. Check back on Instagram and Facebook throughout this month and next to watch the full series.
Alexandria Woodruff is a senior at Desert Vista High School. She is also a dual enrollment student at Rio Salado College.