By Dani Leffler, IDLA Communication Specialist
Meet Sam H. and Suri W., two ambitious students who are taking their education to the next level! Growing up in Rexburg, Idaho, they are earning college credits while still in high school, thanks to their hard work and IDLA. From an early age, they have been part of advanced academic programs. Their drive to excel led them to IDLA, where they found the flexibility to take courses beyond what their schools offered.
IDLA has played a key role in helping Sam and Suri reach their academic goals. Sam is utilizing IDLA to graduate with his associate degree by taking courses that align with his degree requirements. On the other hand, Suri is using IDLA to gain valuable college credits in subjects like psychology and medical terminology, which will support her future nursing degree. “IDLA has given me opportunities to get ahead and have flexibility I wouldn’t otherwise have,” Suri shares, a sentiment echoed by Sam’s experience balancing coursework to graduate with nearly 20 college credits.
Both students have also benefitted from the support and guidance of their instructors. Sam highlights the impact of his Dual Credit Families, Community, and Culture class, saying, “Ms. Harmon was an excellent teacher.” Similarly, Suri praises her current instructor, Shanna Brewer: “She is very involved, offers feedback on nearly every assignment, reaches out, and posts frequent announcements.” Managing both in-person and online coursework has been challenging, but they have found success by prioritizing tasks, using study halls, and setting aside dedicated time for IDLA assignments.
Looking ahead, both Sam and Suri have ambitious plans. Sam will serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints before attending BYU, aiming to complete his Bachelor’s degree in two years. Suri plans to attend BYU-I and pursue a nursing career, confident that her IDLA experience has prepared her for the demands of college coursework. When asked to sum up his experience with IDLA in one sentence, Sam states, “An opportunity to expand my education.”
Sam and Suri’s drive is a testament to the power of taking control of one’s education—something we can all learn from as we set our own academic goals. We are so proud of them for taking charge of their future and setting themselves up for success in the next chapter of their journeys.
