by Sari Signorelli
For Arianna Howard, a senior at Nottingham High School, taking Syracuse University courses through the SUPA program has been transformative—both in preparing her for college and opening doors to higher education opportunities.
“I feel like it’s a good experience and it helps with the college feel,” Arianna explains. “It kind of prepares me for what’s coming because I’m going to college next year.”
The preparation goes beyond just familiarity with college work. Arianna has taken multiple SU courses through SUPA, including marketing, history, psychology, and physics, giving her what she calls “a head start” on the material she’ll encounter in college. Even when courses prove challenging—like physics, which she admits isn’t her strength—she’s found the experience valuable. “My teacher is very helpful to me, and it definitely is making it better and fun,” she says.
Arianna’s hard work is paying off. She has been accepted to multiple colleges and believes taking Syracuse University courses played a role in her success. “I definitely think so,” she says. “Even though the courses may be challenging, I see how hard I’m working, and I’m able to keep moving forward.”
The acceptances have been affirming. “It’s like nice to see all the acceptances coming in. I’m like, wow, people want me!”
For students considering SU courses through SUPA, Arianna’s advice is clear: “Challenge yourself even if you know you’re not good at the course, because we have such amazing teachers here that will help you and provide for you when needed.”