Building a future early: Melina Keovorabouth is earning college credits and chasing entrepreneurial dreams
One of the unique advantages of ASU Prep South Phoenix 7-12 is the opportunity for students to earn college credits, complete internships and explore career pathways before graduating high school.
Rising senior Melina Keovorabouth is taking full advantage of those opportunities, building college experience and pursuing entrepreneurial goals long before graduation day.
Head start, big goals
When thinking about high school, Melina saw an opportunity to accomplish more than earning a diploma.
“What inspired me to pursue the early college pathway is probably my desire to get a head start during high school, while still having that chance to get college done at the same time,” Melina said.
That decision has led to the completion of 14 college courses and steady progress toward earning an associate degree before graduating in May 2027.
The path has not always been easy. College-level coursework requires commitment, perseverance and strong time management skills. Through every challenge, Melina has continued moving forward.
“There have been many doubts and challenges, but to me I’ve learned to outgrow many of these challenges and never gave up,” Melina said.
To be on track to earning both my high school diploma and associates degree means a lot to me. It has been challenging, but I feel a sense of gratitude that I’m able to have this opportunity.“
Discovering a passion for business
Through college coursework, Melina has gained valuable knowledge while exploring potential career paths.
Favorite classes have included Project Management and Project Schedule Management, courses aligned with an interest in business while providing opportunities to collaborate on projects and develop leadership skills.
“I’ve enjoyed those classes because there were many projects I had to complete and I found them very intriguing with the addition of learning how to lead a team,” Melina said.
After graduation, the plan is to attend college in Arizona and pursue a business-related field of study. Serving in the military before or after college is also a consideration.
Support every step of the way
Balancing high school classes, college coursework and personal commitments requires discipline and organization. Melina credits ASU Prep South Phoenix’s supportive environment for being able to stay on track.
“ASU Prep South Phoenix has helped me succeed in these college-level courses by always pushing me to get those assignments done on time and having teachers and counselors that are very helpful when I need it,” Melina said.
For younger students considering the early college pathway, Melina offers practical advice: stay organized, avoid procrastination and ask for help when needed.
“It may seem challenging in the beginning, but the reward is worth it in the end,” Melina said.
ASU Prep South Phoenix is a very welcoming school. The staff is super helpful, and there are so many opportunities students can take advantage of while still enjoying the full high school experience.”
Turning a passion into a business
Outside the classroom, Melina has been building skills in another area of interest: barbering.
The journey began in December 2024. Inspiration came in part from family, as Melina’s mother also cut hair when she was younger. What started as a personal interest has grown into a true passion and a potential career path.
Melina has already begun sharing those skills with the community, offering $5 haircuts during ASU Prep South Phoenix High School’s Día de los Muertos event.
Today, barbering serves as both a creative outlet and a long-term goal. One day, Melina hopes to own and operate a barbershop, combining entrepreneurial ambitions with the business knowledge being developed through college coursework.
Making the most of every opportunity
College classes are only one part of the ASU Prep South Phoenix experience.
This summer, Melina traveled to Washington, D.C., through the Civics Matters Arizona program, gaining firsthand experience with history, government and civic engagement. Participation in clubs, activities and other school opportunities has also helped create a well-rounded high school experience.
For Melina, one of the greatest benefits of ASU Prep South Phoenix is the ability to pursue college coursework while still enjoying everything that comes with being a high school student.
Explore college opportunities at ASU Prep South Phoenix
Interested in learning more? Students at ASU Prep South Phoenix 7-12 can earn college credits, work toward an associate degree, participate in internships and explore career pathways while still in high school.
Melina’s story is just one example of what’s possible when students take advantage of these opportunities.
Learn more about how students Prep for College here.
