SE Valley Times

Nika Bella Nabavi, a sophomore at Desert Vista High School in the Tempe Union High School District, is making strides in her academic journey through a dual enrollment program with Rio Salado College. Nabavi plans to earn approximately 85-90 college credits before graduating high school, which she believes will give her an advantage as she pursues higher education.

Nabavi's aspirations include studying business and finance at prestigious colleges and possibly attending law school in the future. She attributes her motivation to succeed to the encouragement and inspiration from her family, who moved to the United States from Iran. "My family came to the United States from Iran with little money and little knowledge of the language and was still able to create a great life for themselves," Nabavi said. "Through their example I want to replicate their success through academics."

The dual enrollment program offers students like Nabavi an opportunity to earn college credits while still in high school. "It's a great way to receive college associate degrees and earn credits for college, especially with in-state universities," she explained.

Her interest in dual enrollment began during her freshman year when representatives from Rio Salado College visited Desert Vista High School. "I saw it to be a great opportunity," she noted.

Despite managing a rigorous schedule of honors and AP classes, Nabavi has earned 10 college credits so far and aims to achieve an associate degree by graduation. Her involvement extends beyond academics; she participates actively in community service and values physical exercise for maintaining balance.

Nabavi acknowledges that acceptance into top-tier colleges can be daunting but views dual enrollment as a beneficial safety net. "If I don’t get in [to top schools], however, I believe dual enrollment to be a nice safety net that is cheaper and convenient," she said.

Reflecting on her accomplishments, Nabavi shared that excelling academically is one of her proudest achievements. "I would say that I am a person who always strove to be the best version of herself academically and otherwise," she remarked regarding how dual enrollment contributes to her success story.