I’m starting at my local state university this fall as a dual credit student, and the only one from my school district doing so (typically done through a community college, school authorized me to do it at the university). I’m currently registered for 10 hours in German, math, and history.
Since I’m in a rather unique situation (for this university, and for my district), would it be advisable to email or visit the professors before the semester begins? I had already been thinking of contacting my German professor to see what she suggests I do to prepare for her course, however I’ve realized that contacting all three may be advisable since I have some conflicts between high school and college (mainly related to scheduling, and high school events). If it means anything for contacting them, all three have high ratings.
In my opinion there’s no reason to tell them you’re in high school unless it comes out naturally in a conversation. You can deal with scheduling conflicts as they come and if you were okayed to take those classes you shouldn’t need any special preperation.
I would not contact the professors during their vacation time. Once you start at the school you can stop by their office hours if you need to tell them anything.
You may have to prioritize the college classes over the high school events. The college doesn’t dismiss classes for activities. You are almost full time at the school, so that’s your priority now. The professor will announce office hours the first week of classes and you should take advantage of those if you need to meet with the professors.
you can contact them and see what time slot is available for you to study German, math, and history. It doesn’t hurt to contact a professor or a department head. I always do it and get responses back within one or two days. Sometimes if you go to the department website there’s a “email us for any questions”
Just as an anecdote: I had a high school student enrolled in my course last year and I didn’t realize he was in high school until he mentioned it off-hand at the end of the semester. It surprised me a little, but it didn’t change how I graded his work.
So, I wouldn’t email your professors just to tell them you’re in high school because that won’t affect how they treat you in class or anything. But if you know about a time conflict ahead of time, I’d definitely meet with them at the beginning of the semester (not now) to work with them on it. It’s important for you to show you are dedicated to your learning and that you take it seriously. They’ll appreciate that.