MARIETTA, OHIO (February 7, 2019)–Cantor Schott is a senior at Caldwell High School with aspirations of becoming a medical doctor. Well aware of the minimum eight-year commitment to the classroom his chosen profession requires, he has opted to get a jump start on college by taking classes at WSCC through the College Credit Plus (CCP) program.
CCP is an Ohio initiative designed to provide 7th through 12th-grade students the opportunity to earn college credits at no cost to them. With medical school debt averaging $190,000, CCP will help Schott reduce his overall college expenses, a matter his parents appreciate. “My parents are very supportive and happy I’ve taken advantage of this opportunity.”
Schott will be the last of the three brothers to graduate from Washington State Community College (WSCC). While he may be the youngest, he doesn’t walk in the shadows of his brothers; he’s making his own mark on the college and that has earned him the distinction of February Student of the Month.
Schott credits his older brother Josh with inspiring him to sign up for CCP classes. Josh, who graduated from WSCC in 2011, also earned his degree while in high school through what was known at that time as Post-Secondary Enrollment Option (PSEO). Schott said it was Josh’s encouragement and belief in his little brother’s success that compelled him to pursue the opportunity to get an early start on his college education.
With a perfect 4.0 GPA, Schott is well on his way toward his medical career aspirations. He was recently inducted in Phi Theta Kappa, the national honor society of community colleges and is currently exploring volunteer opportunities at local hospitals. Jason Halbleib, who has served as Schott’s advisor since he began his CCP journey holds his efforts in high regard. “Cantor is always looking for additional opportunities to challenge himself and learn more; that’s an excellent mindset for academics and for life.”
As a leader among his peers, Schott recognizes the value that CCP and his college experience has provided him and others. “Going to college, either early or regularly, is a huge step in your academic and professional life. It has helped me discover new passions and develop the skills that I need to propel myself to greater opportunities. It comes with a lot of hard work, but it is all worth it in the end.”
Schott will graduate in May with two associate degrees, one in general science transfer and the other in liberal arts transfer. He has already been accepted into Marietta College where he plans to earn his bachelor’s degree in biology/biochemistry. He ultimately aspires to earn his medical degree from The Ohio State College of Medicine, and while it’s still very early in his education, is leaning toward a specialization in allergy and immunology.
