Some high school students are so excited to start their careers, they don’t want to wait years to enter the workforce. With the help of dual enrollment classes, 2026 PALCS graduate Analilia Cabrera got a head start on her career in computer-aided design (CAD).
While still enrolled at The Pennsylvania Leadership Charter School, Analilia took dual enrollment classes at Delaware County Community College. A month before she walked across the PALCS graduation stage, she walked across a college graduation stage, receiving a Certificate in Computer-Aided Drafting.
That degree and certificate will help Analilia as she looks for an internship or entry-level position right out of high school.
What is computer-aided design?
Computer-aided design is the use of computer software to create drawings or models of objects. It can be used to make blueprints or small parts for cars, airplanes, buildings, and HVAC systems.
“I got into CAD because I was doing it at PALCS,” Analilia said, talking about a class she took with Business Technology Teacher Ms. Julie Shirley. “I was like, ‘oh my gosh, this is so fun.’”
Analilia was inspired to take dual enrollment classes in CAD so she could volunteer in her community.
“I wanted to do a volunteer construction program where they need people who can work in CAD,” Analilia said. “I love giving myself, and I would love to do that for people.”
Earning a college degree in high school
Analilia was able to earn her certificate in part due to the flexibility of her PALCS classes, which she completed entirely online.
“It was nice having that easy schedule to follow, and having teachers and everyone being available,” Analilia said about her time at PALCS.
Analilia’s younger brother is also a student at PALCS.
Working ahead
Analilia took nine classes during her junior year at PALCS. By the time her senior year rolled around, she was only taking three PALCS classes, one of which was her senior portfolio. That freed up time for her to take dual enrollment classes at DCCC.
That’s not to say the transition to taking a full college course load while still in high school happened automatically.
“At first it was a little difficult because I had to go in person, and then do PALCS work when I came back home,” Analilia said. “After a while, I got my schedule and my routine down. I made sure to bring my PALCS laptop to college so I could do work while I was waiting to be picked up.”
Hear the full discussion with Analilia on Winging It, PALCS’s official podcast.
Click here to learn more about the programs PALCS offers, including dual enrollment.
