While most high school students take classes like P.E. and algebra, some Connecticut teens are learning about soil science, floral art, and biotechnology.<\/p>\n
The UConn Early College Experience<\/a> (UConn ECE) program gives students across the state the opportunity to take UConn classes at their own high schools.<\/p>\n The College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources<\/a> (CAHNR) offers nine courses \u2013 eight in sustainable plant and soil sciences<\/a> and an introductory course on environmental science<\/a>. In total, CAHNR offers 86 sections of these courses at 60 schools. In the 2020-21 school year, 1,400 Connecticut students enrolled in these courses.<\/p>\n The rigorous content is on-par with what students would learn if they were taking the course on campus, but it is taught in the familiar setting of their own high school. These courses are hands-on and lab intensive.<\/p>\n \u201cThrough this program, students enter their undergraduate years with a wealth of knowledge as well as other skills necessary to succeeding in college like time management and effective scientific communication,\u201d says Julia Kuzovkina, professor of plant science and UConn ECE faculty coordinator.<\/p>\n UConn ECEclasses turn into graded credits on a students\u2019 transcript at UConn and transfer to most other colleges and universities at a reduced cost.<\/p>\n \u201cTaking UConn ECE courses during high school can help students save money during college or give them the freedom to pursue a double major or minor they otherwise would not have time to complete in four years,\u201d says Brian A. Boecherer, executive director of the Office of Early College Programs.<\/p>\n The courses offered through CAHNR\u2019s academic programs provide a unique leg up to students interested in pursuing a career in the fields of agriculture or environmental science.<\/p>\n Offerings include introductory courses on turfgrass management, horticulture, agricultural technology, environmental soil science, and floral art. There are also options for more advanced courses in biotechnology, plant breeding, and advanced floral design.<\/p>\n