Running Start is an innovative dual-enrollment program that allows high school students to take college-level courses while simultaneously earning credit toward their high school diploma.
Established to provide ambitious students with a head start in their academic journeys, this program is particularly popular in states like Washington, where it is heavily promoted as a way to reduce college costs and expedite educational attainment.
Participants attend community colleges or universities, gaining exposure to rigorous coursework and a collegiate atmosphere, often graduating high school with both a diploma and transferable college credits.
The program appeals to many students for its financial benefits, flexibility, and opportunities for academic and personal growth. However, it is not without its challenges.
Students face the dual responsibility of managing high school and college workloads, which demands exceptional time management and self-discipline.
Additionally, participating in Running Start may mean sacrificing some traditional high school experiences and navigating the complexities of transferring credits to a four-year institution.
This article delves into 9 pros and 9 cons of Running Start, offering an in-depth analysis to help students and parents decide whether this program aligns with their goals. By weighing its advantages and disadvantages, readers can make informed decisions about pursuing this unique educational opportunity.
Pros Of Running Start
1. Earn College Credits While In High School
One of the primary benefits of Running Start is that students can earn college credits while completing their high school education. These credits often fulfill both high school graduation requirements and count toward a college degree.
By tackling general education courses early, students can potentially graduate from college ahead of schedule, saving time and money. Additionally, having college credits under their belt enables students to explore advanced coursework or internships sooner.
This academic head start provides a competitive advantage, particularly for those pursuing rigorous or accelerated degree programs, helping them stand out in applications for graduate programs or future employment opportunities.
2. Save Money On College Tuition
Running Start offers significant financial savings, as students typically do not pay tuition for the college courses they take through the program. Instead, the cost is covered by the state, making it an attractive option for families concerned about the rising expense of higher education.
Participants are usually only responsible for fees like textbooks, materials, and transportation, which are minimal compared to standard tuition rates. By completing up to two years of college coursework for free, students can save thousands of dollars, lightening the financial burden of a bachelor’s degree.
This affordability makes higher education more accessible, particularly for low- and middle-income families.
3. Experience College Life Early
Running Start allows high school students to experience the academic rigor and social environment of college earlier than their peers. Students attend classes on college campuses, interact with professors, and engage with a diverse group of peers, preparing them for the challenges of full-time college life.
This early exposure helps students develop essential skills like self-advocacy, critical thinking, and independence. By navigating the expectations of college-level courses while still in high school, participants gain a clearer understanding of what to expect in higher education, making the transition to a four-year institution smoother and less intimidating.
4. Greater Academic Challenge
For students who feel under-challenged by their high school curriculum, Running Start offers a more stimulating academic environment. College courses often require greater critical thinking, independent study, and analytical skills, pushing students to excel beyond the limitations of traditional high school coursework.
This rigorous environment fosters intellectual growth, encourages curiosity, and allows students to explore subjects in depth. For high-achieving students, the challenge of Running Start can be particularly rewarding, as it provides an opportunity to reach their full academic potential and prepares them for future academic pursuits.
5. Flexibility In Scheduling
Running Start participants enjoy more flexibility in their schedules compared to traditional high school students. College courses are typically offered at various times, including evenings and weekends, allowing students to customize their schedules to fit their needs.
This flexibility can make it easier to balance academics with extracurricular activities, part-time jobs, or family responsibilities. For self-motivated students, the ability to create a personalized schedule is a significant advantage, providing greater autonomy over their time and learning pace.
6. Build A Competitive College Application
Participating in Running Start strengthens a student’s college application by demonstrating academic ambition, readiness for advanced coursework, and the ability to succeed in a collegiate setting.
Admissions officers often view dual-enrollment programs as evidence of maturity, initiative, and preparedness for university life.
These qualities are particularly appealing to selective colleges and scholarship committees. Additionally, the college credits earned through Running Start can help students stand out in the competitive admissions process, showcasing their dedication to academic excellence.
7. Networking Opportunities
Running Start provides students with opportunities to build relationships with college professors, advisors, and peers. These connections can be invaluable for academic and professional development.
Professors may serve as mentors or write letters of recommendation, while peers can offer support and collaboration on academic projects.
Networking within the college environment exposes students to diverse perspectives and resources, broadening their horizons and preparing them for future career opportunities.
8. Explore Career Interests Early
Running Start allows students to explore potential career paths through college-level coursework. By taking classes in fields like psychology, business, or engineering, participants can gain a better understanding of their interests and strengths.
This early exposure helps students make more informed decisions about their future majors and career goals, potentially saving time and money by avoiding unnecessary changes later.
For students with specific career aspirations, Running Start provides a valuable head start in building the foundational knowledge needed for their chosen fields.
9. Gain Independence And Responsibility
Running Start encourages students to take ownership of their education, fostering independence and accountability.
Participants must manage their schedules, meet deadlines, and navigate the complexities of college systems, which cultivates essential life skills like time management, organization, and self-discipline.
These experiences prepare students for the demands of adulthood, building confidence and resilience that will benefit them in both academic and professional settings.
Cons Of Running Start
1. Increased Academic Pressure
While Running Start provides academic opportunities, it also increases the pressure on students. College courses are more demanding than high school classes, requiring extensive reading, research, and critical thinking.
Balancing these courses with high school responsibilities can be overwhelming, particularly for students who struggle with time management.
The dual workload may lead to stress, anxiety, or burnout, affecting academic performance and overall well-being. Students must be prepared for the heightened expectations and workload to succeed in the program.
2. Reduced Social Interaction In High School
Running Start students often spend less time on their high school campus, which can limit their involvement in school activities, clubs, and social events.
This reduced presence may lead to feelings of isolation or a sense of missing out on traditional high school experiences, such as sports games, dances, or senior traditions.
For some students, the diminished connection to their high school community can impact their social development and overall enjoyment of their teenage years.
3. Limited Support Systems
While Running Start provides access to college resources, students may find the support systems less personalized compared to high school. Professors expect students to take initiative in seeking help, and they may not provide the same level of guidance or reminders as high school teachers.
This lack of structure can be challenging for students who are still developing independence and self-advocacy skills. Additionally, high school counselors may have limited involvement once a student begins the program, leaving students to navigate complex administrative tasks, such as credit transfers or course selections, on their own.
For those who thrive in environments with more oversight, this transition can feel abrupt and overwhelming.
4. Financial Costs For Books And Transportation
Although tuition for Running Start courses is typically covered by state funding, students are still responsible for additional costs such as textbooks, lab materials, and transportation.
These expenses can add up, particularly for students enrolled in multiple courses or those who live far from their chosen college campus. For families on tight budgets, these costs may present a financial burden that diminishes the program’s affordability.
Additionally, fluctuating fuel prices and limited public transportation options in rural areas can exacerbate the challenge of commuting, making Running Start less accessible for some students.
5. Difficulty Transferring Credits
While most Running Start credits transfer smoothly to in-state public universities, transferring them to out-of-state or private colleges can be more complicated. Some institutions may not accept certain credits, particularly for courses that do not align with their curriculum. This uncertainty can result in students needing to retake classes, negating the time and financial savings of the program.
For students planning to attend colleges outside their state, careful research and consultation with admissions offices are essential to ensure their efforts in Running Start align with their long-term goals. Without proper planning, the transferability issue can lead to frustration and wasted resources.
6. Loss Of High School Experience
Participating in Running Start often requires students to spend significant time away from their high school, which can result in missing out on traditional high school experiences.
Events like pep rallies, sports games, senior trips, and dances may conflict with college schedules, leaving students feeling disconnected from their peers.
For many, these experiences form a core part of their social development and create lasting memories. The trade-off between gaining college experience and missing high school milestones is a key consideration, as some students may later regret not fully participating in their high school years.
7. Potential Impact On GPA
The rigor of college-level courses can pose a challenge for students who are not fully prepared for the academic demands. Grades earned in Running Start courses typically appear on both the high school and college transcripts, meaning poor performance can affect a student’s overall GPA.
This can have long-term consequences, such as limiting eligibility for scholarships or competitive college admissions.
The dual impact of these grades adds pressure to perform well in both settings, making it crucial for students to assess their readiness before enrolling in the program.
8. Maturity And Readiness Concerns
Running Start demands a high level of maturity and self-discipline, as students are expected to handle the responsibilities of a college environment independently.
Not all high school students are ready for this level of autonomy, and those who struggle with time management or self-advocacy may find themselves overwhelmed. The transition to college-level expectations can be particularly daunting for younger students, leading to frustration or disengagement.
Parents and educators must carefully evaluate a student’s readiness to ensure they can thrive in this demanding environment without compromising their mental health or academic performance.
9. Limited Interaction With Same-Age Peers
Running Start students often attend classes with older college students, which can lead to a sense of isolation or discomfort. The age and maturity gap may make it challenging for younger participants to form connections or feel included in class discussions.
Additionally, being separated from high school peers can hinder the development of close friendships and reduce opportunities for social bonding. For some students, this lack of interaction with same-age peers can detract from their overall educational experience, highlighting the importance of balancing college coursework with high school involvement.
Conclusion
Running Start is a dynamic program offering high school students the opportunity to accelerate their education, save money, and gain early exposure to college life.
The 9 pros, such as earning college credits, experiencing academic rigor, and building independence, highlight the program’s potential to provide significant advantages. However, the 9 cons, including increased academic pressure, reduced social interactions, and financial costs, underscore the challenges that students may face.
For students who are academically prepared, motivated, and eager to take on responsibility, Running Start can be a transformative experience that sets them apart in higher education and beyond.
However, it requires careful planning, readiness, and support to ensure success. By thoroughly weighing the benefits and drawbacks, students and parents can determine whether Running Start aligns with their personal and academic goals, paving the way for a fulfilling and impactful educational journey.