Graduate Credits NMSI for Solid College Foundation

When you were young, did you know what you wanted to do when you grew up? Do you remember what influenced your decision?

Career specialist Dawn Rosenberg McKay has written that students “are aware of only the relatively small number of occupations to which they are exposed, for example, doctor, dentist, teacher, firefighter, police officer, and whatever it is their parents and relatives do to make a living. Learning about other occupations broadens their choices and increases the odds that they will be able to find suitable careers.” 

For Jared Mulhausen of Lawton, Oklahoma, the fascination with computers and coding started in middle school and continued through college. Mulhausen graduated with a bachelor’s in computer science in December 2020 from the University of Oklahoma. He’s currently working as a computer analyst with Dynetics. NMSI connected with him to learn more about his career aspirations and the role NMSI played in preparing him for college.  

“I wanted to be a software developer as I grew up,” Mulhausen remembers. “I found software development so interesting and complex. I loved playing video games and learning how they worked. I also met with a friend’s cousin who was in this line of work, and he helped me think about different career opportunities.”  

Mulhausen learned about NMSI’s College Readiness Program during his sophomore year at Eisenhower High School - one of three high schools in Lawton connected to the Fort Sill Military Reservation. NMSI works with schools in military-impacted communities like Lawton through our Military Families Mission to bring high-quality STEM education. 

“I would say my experience [in CRP] put me ahead of my college freshman peers when it came to the discipline needed to complete assignments and prepare for exams in college. I had a good science and math preparation from Ms. [Katherine] Hengenrether. It all provided a solid base to begin pursuing my degree.” 

In addition to software development, Mulhausen enjoys studying economics and mixed martial arts - jujitsu and boxing, especially. 

NMSI’s College Readiness Program leverages the College Board’s proven Advanced Placement® framework to prepare any student for college and beyond. And our philosophy is that all students can succeed in advanced learning - not just those dubbed as 'gifted' or 'smarter.'

If you're a student on the fence about taking AP classes, Mulhausen offers this advice: “Explore your options. Dip your toes in different subjects to discover your core interests. NMSI provides a good intro to what you will experience in college, so take advantage of that. Work harder today; it’ll make tomorrow easier.”

Are you an administrator in a school district looking to provide AP classes to your schools? Learn how NMSI’s College Readiness Program can provide the proper support for your teachers to prepare your students for a stronger tomorrow. ​Contact us today!