The Greater Amsterdam School District is proud to spotlight the real-world impact of its Smart Scholars Early College High School Program through a newly released student-led video that takes viewers inside the college experience — from walking a college campus to earning credits while still in high school.
The video features three Amsterdam High School Smart Scholars who share their firsthand experiences balancing high school life with college coursework, highlighting how the program has helped them gain confidence, independence and a head start on their future. Through their voices, viewers see what a typical day looks like for a Smart Scholar, including time spent on a college campus, engaging in college-level classes and preparing for life after graduation.
“Smart Scholars truly transforms how students see themselves and their futures,” said Leigh McCormick, Smart Scholars counselor and coordinator for the Greater Amsterdam School District. “This program gives students the opportunity to experience college early, build confidence in a real college environment, and realize that higher education is not only possible — it’s achievable.”
Smart Scholars is a four-year early college program that allows qualifying Amsterdam High School students to earn college credit at no cost to families. Through a partnership with Fulton-Montgomery Community College (FMCC), students can begin taking college-level courses as early as 10th grade and are dual enrolled during their junior and senior years. By graduation, students are required to earn at least 24 college credits, primarily in general education courses, giving them a significant academic and financial advantage.
Beyond academics, the program focuses on long-term success. Smart Scholars participate in college-prep seminars each year, building skills in time management, career readiness, college applications and scholarships. Junior and senior students attend classes on the FMCC campus several mornings a week and participate in college visits that further expose them to postsecondary opportunities.
“This video captures the heart of the Smart Scholars experience,” McCormick added. “Hearing directly from our students shows the growth, pride and determination that come from being part of this program.”
The Smart Scholars program is free to qualifying students and families, with all tuition, books and lab fees covered. Students also receive the same privileges as other FMCC students, reinforcing an authentic college experience while still supported by their high school community.
Watch the full video to hear directly from our students and see how Smart Scholars is opening doors for Amsterdam High School learners.