Putting the cart before the horse holds a more positive connotation for TJ Carver, who has completed all the requirements for a college degree before graduating from high school.

Carver managed to get two years ahead and earn his associate degree using dual credit at Barton Community College, which counts college work as high school credit.

He’s using his momentum to press on toward a degree in physical therapy, which he hopes to use in service to the military in his father’s and grandfathers’ footsteps.

“Dual credit coursework is the best option, especially if you’re a military family member since the classes are on scholarship,” he said. “People should jump on the opportunity and go ahead and do it. It's a great thing to be ahead since today getting a bachelor’s isn't competitive. You need a master’s or doctorate to be competitive, and getting a head start really helps you.”

Carver will walk with about 30 other Barton graduates at 6 p.m. Wednesday, June 8, at the Command General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth. The ceremony will be in conjunction with other schools who are members of the consortium in the Fort Leavenworth Education Center.

Barton Community College's association with Fort Leavenworth started in the early months of 2012, with the first college program classes held in October 2012. With the support of the Army Education Center and the Army leadership on post, the Barton Fort Leavenworth campus has continued to grow in support of the Army, its soldiers, their families and the Fort Leavenworth community. The Barton Community College Fort Leavenworth campus provides education and training, as well as selected specialized education and training to students on post and the surrounding community.  The campus provides instructional services for LSEC, evening/weekend college courses, and BSEP.