Shelbyville Central High School senior Oren Grijalva is working toward an engineering future while learning that college-level coursework requires more than knowing the answers. It also means managing deadlines, planning ahead and sometimes putting assignments before time with friends.
Bedford County Schools highlighted Grijalva’s experience in Middle College in an Oct. 27 profile. The program allows students to earn college credits while finishing high school, with the possibility of completing an associate degree by high school graduation.
For Grijalva, the academic challenge is a major reason to participate. He described the program as one of the hardest things he has done, but said he has not regretted joining.
His college-level math and science classes are helping him connect classroom lessons with the engineering career he hopes to pursue. The experience has also taken him beyond those subjects: during his first semester, an art class included a trip to an Alabama art museum.
The workload has brought adjustments. Grijalva has had to turn down some opportunities to spend time with friends so he could meet course deadlines. Learning to plan ahead has helped him balance school responsibilities, extracurricular activities and relationships.
The credits may also help after graduation. Depending on a student’s completed courses and future degree requirements, Middle College can reduce the amount of coursework remaining toward a four-year degree. Finishing that degree sooner is a possibility, not a guarantee.
Grijalva’s advice to other students considering the program is to understand the commitment before signing up and be prepared to work hard.
Source: Bedford County Schools, October 27, 2026.
Featured image: 931Go illustration.
