MARIETTA, OHIO — Silas Hutchison is already taking bold steps toward his future through Washington State College of Ohio’s (WSCO) College Credit Plus (CCP) program. Enrolled in classes for the Business Administration Associate’s Degree, he plans to graduate high school and earn his Associate’s degree simultaneously in 2028, setting the stage for a future in corporate law.
“I chose WSCO’s CCP program because it gives me a jump start on my education and career path,” Hutchison shared. “The flexible class times fit my high school schedule and allow me to pursue both academic tracks successfully.”
Hutchison’s interest in corporate law began after realizing how significantly business decisions shape the world around us. “Behind every major business decision, there are legal strategies guiding those choices,” he explained. His passion for the field stems from his strengths in analytical thinking, his curiosity about how businesses operate, and his desire to pursue a challenging career that requires both intelligence and integrity.
A key influence in his journey has been Zach Padden, a lawyer who also served as Hutchison’s middle school basketball coach. “He’s someone I’ve been able to bounce questions off of and someone I truly look up to,” Hutchison said.
Balancing high school and college coursework is not without its challenges. “The most challenging part is staying disciplined. I have to manage my time carefully and complete assignments independently without the typical classroom oversight,” he said. The rewards, however, are equally significant. “It’s motivating to know that the work I’m doing now is bettering me educationally and financially for the future.”
To manage his dual responsibilities, Hutchison sets aside dedicated days and times each week to focus exclusively on either high school or college assignments. Outside the classroom, he stays busy as a member of his school’s basketball and tennis teams, serves as an executive officer for the French Club, and attends Youth Group at NewPointe Church.
Hutchison is also involved with the Ohio Model United Nations. Each year, participants attend an annual conference in Columbus, Ohio, where they prepare debates and compete against students from schools across the state. Representing countries from around the world, students draft resolutions and work to have them passed in the General Assembly. “It’s a great way to practice debating, which will be required in my career path, and it’s also a lot of fun with my peers,” Hutchison said.
Looking ahead, Hutchison plans to attend Ohio Northern University Pettit College of Law after completing his undergraduate studies. He is drawn to the school’s strong emphasis on practical, hands-on legal training and its supportive community. “The school values professionalism and ethics,” he noted. “Corporate law requires strong legal knowledge, integrity, and responsibility. The values they promote align with how I want to conduct myself as a lawyer.”
Hutchison also credits Abbey Turner, a College Pathway Advisor at WSCO, for helping him stay on track. “She has really gone above and beyond to make sure that I stay on task with my program and CCP courses,” he said. “We meet regularly to ensure I’m on track to meet my goals, and she helps guide me toward colleges that accept the credits WSCO offers.”
He encourages students who are ready to challenge themselves to take the leap: “Definitely go for it. It’s a great way to get ahead academically, but it’s also a commitment.”
Through his dedication, organization, and drive, Hutchison demonstrates how WSCO’s CCP program prepares ambitious students to succeed both academically and personally.
