Noah Sanchez

Student

According to Noah Sanchez, Bay College’s Fall 2024 semester marked his first semester as a full-time Bay student. However, he had already taken college classes before that point by participating in the Early/Middle College program.

“I went to Bark River-Harris High School, and they introduced me to the Early/Middle College program. That’s how I got enrolled and started taking classes here,” he said.

Thanks to Early/Middle College, students at local high schools and Intermediate School Districts (ISDs) can start taking college courses before they finish high school. They go on to take a fifth year of high school, which they spend focusing on Bay College classes. By participating in this program, Early/Middle College students can get a certificate, associate degree, or up to 60 college credits at little to no cost of their own.

“I really see it as a no-brainer. Why would you rather pay for college than get your first year free?,” Noah said of this program.

So far, Noah said he has liked being a full-time student at Bay.

“I’m really enjoying it. I really enjoy my classes, and I have a really nice schedule,” he said.

His instructors have been a highlight of his experience at the college. Specifically, he noted that Nick Fox has helped him take his critical thinking skills to the next level.

“He’s good at getting us to try and answer questions by ourselves, rather than just answering them for us,” Noah said.

For the most part, Noah said he has had little trouble juggling his education and other aspects of his life.

“It’s really nice, being able to have a good balance between my classes, work, and my personal life,” he said.

At Bay, Noah is majoring in mechatronics—a field he has been interested in for quite a while.

“When I was in high school, I was in the Delta-Schoolcraft ISD with Darrell Mullins in machining. I just really enjoyed being able to make stuff, and mechatronics builds on the basics of manufacturing and electrical and mechanical work,” he said.

During his time at Bay, Noah has taken classes focusing on fluid power, real-time robotics, and circuit fundamentals.

At the end of the 2024-25 school year, Noah plans to earn a certificate in mechatronics. Beyond that point, he might stay at Bay to work toward an associate degree in mechatronics and robotics systems; otherwise, he might enter the workforce or continue his education elsewhere.

“I’m really undecided at this point,” he said.

Wherever he goes next, Noah is glad he had a chance to save money and stay close to home during his first full year of higher education.

“It’s been really nice for me to keep living how I’ve been living and not have to worry too much about college,” he said.