Using Smarter by 1 Degree’s incredible degree planning services, Hayden earned his high school diploma at age 15 and a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts from Excelsior University at age 16. Not only did the degree plan provide interest-based classes that motivated Hayden, but they also allowed him to complete his work in about 2-3 hours a day which left him plenty of time to pursue his musical passions.

During his 2 years of working toward his degree, he also earned 1st place trophies in several piano competitions and a special recognition for completing his 5-year Guild Membership. It wasn’t all work and no play, though. This young man had time to explore digital music creation, compose original songs, hang out with friends, and of course play Minecraft and build with Legos.

Hayden is currently taking a gap year. He is using this time to work toward earning his Social Music Diploma and High School Music Diploma from Guild. He has several other competitions he is preparing for, too. Additionally, he is starting to research what university he will attend to pursue a master’s degree in music therapy. This gap year is also filled with teaching piano online, pursuing certificates, learning to work with AI, working on community betterment projects, and preparing for an upcoming music teacher role in the fall.

Hayden is diagnosed with Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, and several visual processing issues. This didn’t stop him though. Janine recognized that his intelligence could shine through with the proper accommodations and tools to succeed, and she helped us through each step to ensure Hayden’s success.

Calling SB1D a degree planning service is a bit of a misnomer. It is so much more. The ongoing support, the encouragement, advice, and the celebration of each accomplishment is priceless. Over time, Janine became not only a mentor, but a friend and she truly treats each person she works with like family. I can say for sure that we could not have afforded to pay for what would have cost around $65,000 for the degree Hayden earned at Excelsior. The amount we saved by using SB1D is incredible. We are forever grateful for the help, love, and support of Janine, her husband, and her staff.

~Amy