Cheyenne Curry has envisioned being a veterinarian since she was four years old. The Greenbrier High School student now has a strong pathway to pursue that dream, thanks to Robertson County Schools and a partnership between the University of Tennessee Martin and Volunteer State Community College.

Cheyenne is one of several students who showed up to a recent interest meeting, hosted by UT Martin and Vol State, introducing Robertson County students to this Agribusiness career path.  This dual enrollment program gives students access to completing up to 10 college level classes by the time they graduate high school.

The initiative officially launches for the 2024-25 academic year, with all classes taking place at Vol State’s Springfield campus. Cheyenne plans on utilizing this program to gain a head start and eventually earn a doctorate’s degree in Veterinary Medicine.

“It’s pretty cool, actually!” Cheyenne says, shooting a smile across her face.

Removing the common obstacles of financing and time in furthering education, this program springboards students toward their dream career and motivates them to finish high school well.

“What I’m seeing is that this opportunity keeps them excited about achieving this next level,” says Vol State Springfield Center Director Meredith Young. “They don’t have to leave Robertson County in order to pursue a higher degree.”

From toddler to teen years, this soil beneath their feet is the soil of a leading agricultural county in Tennessee. Robertson County ranks third in the state and generates over $140 million in agriculture revenue annually, according to Robertson County Economic Development. With such a backdrop, this program is sure to reach many future farmers, veterinarians, and ag-focused scientists and researchers.

Erica Bell, Executive Director of Regional Centers and Online Program for UT Martin, says the university was excited about establishing a strong partnership following the first site visit to Vol State Springfield.

“Our focus is increasing access to a high-quality education close to home, aimed at creating seamless transfer pathways and providing exceptional career support to open the pipeline for deserving students of Robertson County and today’s future workforce,” says Erica.

Robertson County Schools' Continuing and Technical Education Coordinator Will Elliott echoes Erica’s statement.

“There are so many options to help students get started in a more comfortable environment than just graduating and trying to figure it out on their own,” Will explains.

Indeed, dual enrollment has been a viable program for the past decade. It is one that ages well, expanding to reach students with all different interests. Long gone are the days of students merely sitting through lectures in the classroom.

“We have a full-blown catalog where there is something for everybody,” adds Will. “Whether you want to jumpstart your welding career with professional training, have your associate’s degree when you get your high school diploma, or get a head start on your Agriculture Business bachelor's degree.”

Erica calls it a visual pathway.

“We’ve actually helped them see the journey,” she says, “offering 360-degree support from both institutions.”

It’s support Cheyenne is relishing.

“Even if you’re an upcoming senior, you can still participate and get on track,” she says excitedly.

Excitement is contagious. Let’s be part of that support circle and cheer on our students, further sparking the flame of dreams ignited.  

For more information about the program, visit https://www.volstate.edu/dual-enrollment/bachelor-agri-business-robertson-county.