Qanita Ali, a 2024 Creekview High School graduate, is rapidly progressing toward a career in the medical field thanks to opportunities provided by Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD.

Now a freshman at the University of Texas at Dallas (UTD), pursuing a degree in neuroscience and pre-med, Ali entered the university with a head start, thanks to CFBISD’s dual credit program. Her strong academic record also scored her a full ride on a Terry Foundation scholarship. 

"The district provided opportunities I simply couldn’t find elsewhere," Ali said. "It is a major reason I am where I’m at today."

Ali didn’t begin her journey with CFBISD until her junior year. After growing up in Pakistan and completing middle school overseas, her family moved back to the states to be close to Ali’s grandmother, who was battling stage-three breast cancer at the time. Ali enrolled at a local charter school where she spent her freshman and sophomore years. 

"The school system in Pakistan was very different from the American system, and my charter school didn't provide the growth I needed," Ali explained. "My mother, who is my biggest supporter, encouraged me to try out public education. I am so thankful that she did, as Creekview was the first school that truly supported me and offered expanded opportunities."

While acknowledging the challenges of pursuing college-level courses in high school, Ali found a strong support system within CFBISD. She credits Creekview’s dual credit counselor, Ms. Kay, for her support. 

“I'm extremely grateful to all my counselors, especially Ms. Kay, for her consistent support and patience,” she expressed. “I spent many hours in her office working through class schedules and strategizing the best path forward. She dedicated so much of her time to ensure I stayed on track.”

Ali's dual-credit experience helped her secure a job early on as a pharmacy technician during her senior year at Creekview. As a freshman at UTD, she is already taking junior-level classes and participating in advanced research labs. Her accelerated academic standing allows her to engage in advanced research, pursue medical field experience, and obtain an EMT certification, all while shortening her path to medical school.

When asked for advice to give to students considering dual credit or other opportunities within public education, Ali stated the following:

 "Don’t let fear prevent you from trying. It can seem intimidating to pursue college-level courses in high school. Anything is possible with effort and support."

Ali plans to complete her doctorate at UTD and pursue a career in neuroscience or a related field.

Students in the program access rigorous coursework, receive equitable post-secondary opportunities and prepare for careers with industry-based certifications. To learn more, please visit the CFBISD dual credit website.