Senior becomes second JEHS student to receive OCC degree

Senior Laura Alcock has set big goals for herself since middle school. That’s when she decided she wanted to take classes at Onondaga Community College, while simultaneously completing her normal high school courses.

“All of this hard work allows me to hold two diplomas at graduation this year,” said Laura.

Along with graduating in the top ten percent of her senior class, Laura is receiving a degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences from OCC. Laura is the second Jordan-Elbridge student to ever reach this accomplishment.

She’s been doubling up, taking both high school and OCC classes since her sophomore year. She’s even had to take classes over the summer to make sure she finished her degree on time.

“This took a lot of sacrificing,” said Laura.

When the pandemic hit, Laura had to choose between going to college on campus or going to high school in-person and taking whatever college courses she could remotely.

“There was also a concern that if I decided to attend OCC, I wouldn’t be able to participate in tennis or even possibly not attend important senior events such as the senior ball,” she added.

In the end, she chose going to her college courses in-person. Laura didn’t want to pass up on that experience, or the opportunity to get ahead.

“I enjoy learning and take great pride in earning good grades and achieving and meeting my high standards for myself,” said Laura.

She’ll be attending the University of Pittsburgh in the fall, where this OCC degree will give her the opportunity to skip some of the requirements for freshmen. Laura’s goal is to become a lawyer.