Students are accustomed to the typical four years of high school and earning above 27 or right at 27 credits, but others aim for early graduation. Liam McDonald is a senior, who is graduating early. He decided earlier on to take multiple classes during the summer in order to be ahead of his class.

“I guess the main part about taking classes during the summer was the fact that I could get a year’s worth of stuff done in an 8 week period. Also, this meant that I could get enough credits to graduate a year early, which appealed to me,” said Senior Liam McDonald

Even though the district allows you to take only on level classes during the summer, AP courses are still available throughout the year, still allowing you to earn credits from advanced courses.

“The classes that I took were English 1 before my freshman year, and World History before my sophomore year,” said McDonald.

Having to take a class above your own grade level might be intimidating especially because you aren’t surrounded by familiar classmates. Adapting to the certain classmates in the class is required in order to be comfortable with your learning environment.

“I suppose it’s no different than handling any other class. I still have to study, do my work, and altogether stay on top of things, which is what I would do in any other class,” said McDonald.

Along with graduating early is entering college early. McDonald sees his future at UNT in the next year pursuing the major of his choice and his future career that he is looking forward to.

“After high school, I want to go to a good music college and major in music education, or if things go good, become a professional music performer,” said McDonald.

Extracurricular activities are also a part of McDonald’s life. He prides himself in taking up activities that fills p his time but still pleasures him and doesn’t become much of a burden.

“I play tennis for Mansfield, and I also love to play the guitar, as I play in a band with a group of friends,I just stay organized and divide my time well. I feel like that’s what should be done for anyone, no matter of they’re graduating early or not.” said McDonald.

Even though McDonald might be leaving some friends that he grew up with, he will still continue keeping in contact with his friends.

“Of course I’ll keep up with my classmates! They’re still my friends, and even though I’ve made friends who are older than I am, I still plan on keeping in contact with those who I’m with now,” said McDonald.