UNIVERSITY CENTER

AT

ELSIE ALLEN HIGH SCHOOL

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

  1. What is the University Center?

The UC is a magnet program for students who want to excel.  Students take at least two honors/AP classes each year.  After completing Algebra II (in tenth or eleventh grade) and maintaining a GPA of at least a B-, students can go to Sonoma State University as a high school junior or senior.  Some students take only four or five classes at the high school while they also take one or two college courses each semester.  Some students complete up to one year of college at the time they graduate from high school

 

  1. What is the advantage of participating in this program?

You will be with students who like to learn – just like you!  You can graduate from high school AND earn a full year of college credit that is transferable to anywhere in the nation. If you decide to continue your education at SSU, you do not have to apply; you simply continue as you have as a high school student.

 

  1. How much does it cost to go to Sonoma State University as an Elsie Allen student?

It will cost you only $16 a semester compared to college students’ $1,200 tuition!  You will have free transportation.  You may have to pay part of your textbook fees.

 

  1. Will I be able to see my friends who are not in the program?

Yes!  You will take academic and honors/AP classes with other UC and non-UC students at Elsie Allen.

 

  1. What if I have problems in a class?

The coordinator of the program will assist you as will your high school counselor.  Peer tutoring is also available.

 

  1. What would a typical day look like for a ninth grader?

As a freshman you will take honors English, algebra or geometry, biology or physical science, and world history, fine arts, and French or Spanish.  You must take at least two honors classes to prepare you to be successful.

 

  1. How is this program different from the Early College Program at Piner?

Any student can take junior college classes while in high school.  There are no prerequisites.

You must have completed Algebra II and have a B- GPA (no grade below a C) to attend SSU while in high school. You register for SSU courses before any other college student. You get individual attention.

 

     8.   Will I still have time to participate in extra-curricular activities?

Yes, absolutely!