Laila Sanders

[HS] 2 Class of 2016

Syracuse University, Class of 2022

I’ll never forget graduating from a program as wonderful as [HS]² in 2016. Those three summers in Carbondale have changed my life for the better. I cherished the opportunity of living on a campus with people who had similar backgrounds and interests as me. This set a sturdy foundation that I have taken with me throughout my college experience. Not only did living with others help, but taking rigorous classes in the summer prepared me for the realities of college. I was so appreciative of the [HS]² faculty for teaching me STEM-related courses that gave me a head start above some of my classmates. I recall taking pre-calc during my third year and using it to help me through a calculus class I took as a freshman. Taking college counseling with Betsy prepared me for navigating the college process. During my freshman year, Betsy reached out to let me know she was visiting Syracuse University and I was able to see her for a few moments. This made me realize that [HS]² followed me even after I finished the program. My journey throughout college has had ups and downs, but I am so happy to be graduating in Spring 2022 with a B.S in Psychology. As I soon start the next chapter of my life, I look back on how far I have come and I give my thanks to the [HS]² faculty and the many supporters of the program for allowing me and other students from underrepresented backgrounds the chance to achieve their dreams.