As a junior in high school looking towards making college decisions, I have seen just how expensive tuition, classes, and everything surrounding college can be. In Iowa, the D1 schools such as Iowa, ISU and UNI have in-state tuition averaging around $10,500 per year. Out-of-state tuition starts at around $25,000 per year and private colleges cost even more. Knowing that most students and families have to take out bank loans or pay off some schooling debt after college makes not only the students sweat a little, but also the parents. So how do you get those costs lowered? There is always the option of FAFSA, scholarships and cutting costs of meal plans and textbooks. Another great way to not only save a little cash but also cut your college workload is taking DMACC classes as a high school student

I am working towards my AA degree through DMACC while also taking my core classes. I have found these classes to be a great opportunity and will save me around $30,000 or more for college costs because the school district allows students to take these classes for free. I speak very highly of these programs and the opportunities for learning and growth that DMACC classes provide students, but don’t just take my word for it. Here is a testimony from another student on their experiences.

Grant Jansen – junior: “I’ve taken Oral Communications and Introduction to Sociology. I think that Oral Communications is an easy course, it just requires a lot of time and effort.”

Jansen noted that this course included a lot of writing scripts and public speaking through Zoom meetings. This course is normally taken if a student doesn’t wish to take a public speaking course in college. It can also help students get their first year of college English done with the addition of AP Language and Composition taken in school. 

“Introduction to Sociology can be easy depending on your professor. Some are harder graders than others.” Jansen talked about how he is glad that he has taken these courses as they are easier to complete for college credits and free of charge for students which saves them money in the long run.

Here is a list of the best (and easiest) classes to start your DMACC education with:

Medical Terminology: A rundown of the human body systems through learning terms, and word parts and taking part in discussions with peers in the same class. Highly recommended for those interested in the medical field, or who have an interest in how the body works.

Introduction to Sociology: Insight into the human mind and why people think and make decisions the way that they do. A very good introductory course for underclassmen or someone looking for an easy A. Some professors are harder than others but it is still an obtainable course.

Oral Communications: Public speaking course, A.K.A. Speech. Best for students who struggle with public speaking as it gives them the needed tools to grow more confident in their abilities in front of a real group of people, but not in person.