Editor’s Note: Ahead of the Curve is a series of stories that spotlights five Rock University High School seniors who earned their associate degree two weeks before they graduated from high school.

After James Mathesius began creating simple video games and websites for fun, he started looking at college-level classes to help him grow his programming knowledge.

As a student at Rock University High School, he didn’t have to look that far to find courses that piqued his interest. Through RUHS, which is located on Blackhawk’s Central Campus, he started taking Electromechanical Technology courses as part of the college’s dual enrollment program.

“All of the different classes sounded very interesting and like they would mesh well as I learned more programming,” he said.

His time balancing college and high school courses paid off. James earned his associate degree in Electromechanical Technology from Blackhawk on May 20 - two weeks before earning his high school diploma.

James said planning and staying organized made him successful in his program.

“Many of my classes have been online so that they fit into my schedule, but as a consequence, it’s my responsibility to stay on top of things,” he said.

James would recommend this option to anyone who has the opportunity. Many of the courses will transfer toward a four-year degree, and it’s a great way to save money, he said.

“Think about what you’re interested in and what you might want to do in the future and take time choosing courses,” he said.

In his free time, James enjoys tennis, skiing and hiking. He is also interested in filmmaking and has been editing short films and sometimes incorporating visual effects.

James is heading to the University of Wisconsin-Madison in the fall and is open to the possibility of starting his own business once he completes his bachelor’s degree.

Start College in High School

High school students can earn college credit through advanced standing or transcripted credit articulation agreements between Blackhawk and high schools in Rock and Green counties,

High school students also can participate in the Start College Now program, which is open to juniors and seniors who have approval from their school district and meet other requirements.

Learn more about the options at blackhawk.edu/startcollegenow.