Jun 9th, 2016
Mikinze Anne Collins accomplished an impressive feat of academics through dual enrollment and flexible scheduling at Jackson State Community College.
She earned her associate of science degree in general studies this spring. A week later, she received her diploma during the commencement ceremony for Adamsville High School's graduating seniors.
Collins chose Jackson State after calling other colleges in the region. She was repeatedly told it was impossible to earn an associate degree and a diploma at the same time. Her mother attended Jackson State, so she gave the school a chance and heard a much different response.
"Jackson State was all for it," Collins said. "It's a really good school. They really care about your education and where you want to go with your career and what's next for you."
Beginning her junior year, she completed 21 college courses. Most were online, some were night classes at Jackson State, and one she took at Adamsville High School.
She said it was hard work completing several college courses in two years with a full plate of high school courses. But she still made the dean's list at Jackson State and graduated with honors at Adamsville.
Collins said her teachers at Jackson State were amazing and worked with her busy schedule. They accommodated her, for example, if one of her many high school extracurricular activities conflicted with a class at night.
She plans to attend the University of Tennessee, Knoxville in the the fall and pursue a marketing degree. She may also pursue a master's degree, but she hasn't decided where.
Collins said she feels prepared for a four-year university and she'll leave McNairy County without apprehension. "I'm excited about it, and I think I'm ready academically."
Her ultimate goal is to work in the marketing department for large companies in industries such as cosmetics or the airlines. She wants to focus on advertising.
Her new associate degree has helped her get a head start on her dream, and she would recommend dual enrollment at Jackson State to anyone in high school who is considering it.
"It's hard work and you have to be sure it's something you want to do, but the whole experience at Jackson State was just great," Collins said.