Ahead of Graduation, PB Senior Bartolotta Set to Earn Associate’s Degree in May
When Nina Bartolotta arrived at Port Byron in 10th grade, she was looking for more—more opportunity, more direction, and a place where she could truly thrive. After transferring from Jordan-Elbridge, she quickly found exactly that, especially through access to college-level coursework.
By the middle of her sophomore year, Nina realized she was on track to earn a significant number of college credits. With that realization, she began to see just how far she could go. With the guidance and support of Mr. Barber—whom she credits as instrumental in her journey—Nina mapped out an ambitious plan. Together, they worked with Cayuga Community College to determine the requirements she needed to earn her associate’s degree.
Alongside her regular college preparatory classes, Nina still needed to complete additional coursework, including a higher-level English class, a physical education class, and a humanities course. It made for a demanding schedule, but she met the challenge with focus and determination.
This May, Nina will achieve a milestone few high school students reach—she will walk at Cayuga Community College to receive her associate’s degree, earning it even before she receives her high school diploma.
As she looks ahead, Nina plans to double major in psychology and biology, with the goal of attending medical school and becoming a psychiatrist. While she has been accepted to multiple colleges across the East, she is also considering heading south, with schools in the Carolinas or Mississippi among her options.
Nina credits much of her motivation to her mom, who always encouraged her to value education and work hard.
“She always told me that college is your place—that’s where you’ll find your people,” Bartolotta said.
At Port Byron, Nina found a place to achieve her goals. As a member of the volleyball team and student council, she became an active part of the school community while excelling academically. What began as a search for opportunity became a story of determination, growth, and success.
And for Nina Bartolotta, this is only the beginning.