2 Ohio graduates make history at the University of Cincinnati

CINCINNATI (WKRC) - A Walnut Hills graduate and a Centerville grad made history at the University of Cincinnati this graduation season, earning their high school diplomas and bachelor's degrees simultaneously.

The two graduates were the first students at UC to earn their bachelor's degrees through Ohio's College Credit Plus program.

It allows public school students and some private school students to take college courses as early as 7th grade, for free.

Caden Elrod, the Walnut Hills grad, earned his degree in statistics with a minor in computer science. He said the program was not initially his idea.

"My mom discovered this program called CCP, College Career Plus," said Elrod. "Because I wanted to be challenged more. All of my classes were really easy, all throughout school. And so, if I took college classes, I could take a lot more challenging courses and learn a lot."

Elrod said he started with the less difficult courses and worked his way up to the more challenging courses. He also described his middle and high school experience as "normal" during this time.

"I played tennis, golf, cross country, I did ultimate frisbee this semester," said Elrod. "I also did mock trial and ski club. I've done a bunch of different things at Walnut."

The program teaches independence and self-sufficiency, according to Lorrie Biship, UC Director of Secondary Enrollment Partnerships.

"The most important part becoming a college credit plus student is students being able to self-advocate and be able to start navigating the business of being a college student," said Bishop. "So, when Caden was dropped off for class in the 7th grade, Caden was treated like a typical undergraduate student."

Sai Gollamudi, the Centerville High School graduate, earned his degree in neurobiology.

He also participated in normal grade-school extracurricular activities. Though he said navigating UC was different than navigating middle and high school.

"High school, everything is kind of close-knit, you're able to find your way around and after a day, you get used to it," said Gollamudi. "UC, even after 4 years, you still find a new building every now and then."

Gollamudi said he is planning to continue his secondary education career at Yale or Columbia in the upcoming school year.

Elrod said he is planning to start his career with the Department of Defense.

More than 5,000 students participate in the state's College Credit Plus program on UC's campus.