Patel Receives High School and Associate Degree Simultaneously

Parsons, KS- Parsons High School senior, Shaan Patel, will earn his Associate degree in Accounting from Labette Community College two days before walking across the stage for his high school graduation. Patel’s post-secondary education academic success was achieved through dual credit courses and on-ground classes from LCC.

Patel, during high school, had the goal of graduating high school and college simultaneously. “Soon after I enrolled in concurrent credit courses, I was just thinking what if I received my associates degree along with graduating high school. Then it kind of just happened and I was already on track to receive the associates degree, so I pursued it,” said Patel of his decision to earn his degree. He realized the academic advantages for his future by taking college level courses during high school. “I wanted to complete my associates because it was an opportunity to be two years ahead in college,” said Patel.

He offered advice to other high school students taking dual or concurrent classes. “Do not put too many things on your plate if you would like to have extra free time, and focus on academics,” said Patel. “Taking courses during high school gave me a taste of how college will be in a couple of months.” 

Patel credited his high school counselor, Tabitha Spriggs of Parsons High School, in helping determine what high school and college classes to take. As a student driven toward a career in accounting, Patel took many LCC business and accounting classes in addition to general education requirements. “LCC advisor Kylie Lucas and Accounting instructor, Cathy Kibler were very helpful for me,” Patel said.

Patel plans to attend the University of Kansas in fall 2019 to pursue a bachelor and master’s degree in Accounting. His long-term goal is to work in an accounting firm or own his own business.