North Carolina helps kids earn college degrees in high school. It’s a lifeline for immigrant families

‘My work permit can be taken away at any moment, and what happens if I’ve enrolled in school?’ said Gabriela (pseudonym), whose ultimate goal is to become an elementary school teacher. Composite: The Guardian/Getty Images

Daniel is a high school senior in rural North Carolina. Soon, he will graduate with a high school diploma, an associate degree and a paralegal certification from a local community college. He’s just 17, but he’ll be able to apply for positions at law firms and begin earning an almost $50,000 salary straight out of high school.

“The early college program really set me up for success because even though I’m young, I’ll be able to help financially support my family,” said Daniel, a first-generation Salvadorian American who is only using his first name to protect undocumented family members. “I’ve done all of this because of support from my mother and family. I owe everything I’ve accomplished to them and I want to give back.”