Middle Early College High School Program made the difference for Buffalo State senior

Traesyh Wrensford, a current senior at Buffalo State and graduate of the Middle Early College High School program (MECHS), recently had the opportunity to participate in a statewide leadership program focusing on middle early college programming. The program was sponsored by NY4ECP, a cross-sector coalition focused on increasing the number of students with access to high-quality Early College Pathways in New York State.

Wrensford, who matriculated to Buffalo State after graduating from MECHS, is set to graduate this May with a degree in political science. During his time at Buffalo State, he became involved in the community and secured internships with both Chambers of Commerce. Wrensford said the Middle Early High School Program was fundamental to his success because provided him early access to a college setting and allowed him more time to consider his career.

“The early college pathway network provides students with a direct link to success after high school,” he said, “Three years after my high school graduation, I am graduating early with no debt and have had unique opportunities like participating in the fellowship with New York Alliance for Early College Pathways to advocate in Albany to spread awareness about Early College Pathway Programs. This fellowship provided me with firsthand advocacy experience talking with legislators and their staff about the importance of protecting the early college opportunity fund, which increases access for students across New York State.”

“We are so proud of the growth Traesyh has demonstrated, not only through his academic achievement, but in the confidence and leadership he now brings into new spaces,” said Tristin Salter, coordinator for Buffalo State’s Dual Enrollment Program. “He has taken what he learned in our program and applied it in meaningful ways, showing his initiative and ability to lead others.”

Housed in Buffalo State’s Continuing Professional Studies Office, MECHS is a four-year program in which students take a variety of courses beginning in their sophomore year in high school. Its philosophy is to provide a nurturing, supportive learning environment for underserved high school students who have the potential to benefit from a rigorous academic curriculum. Students have the opportunity to graduate high school with up to 51 college credit hours, enabling them to enter higher education as a junior, saving substantially on costs and time to graduation. Some courses may also be offered on the university campus for which students receive dual credit upon successful completion of the courses.

“It is important that New York State continues to expand initiatives like this,” Wrensford said, “so that these life-changing opportunities remain accessible to all.”