• PALMA
• SLIP
• MMP

Abigail plans to begin working and preparing for a masters degree following graduation. Long term plans include pursuing community engagement/programming and librarianship.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Balance and self-management is key.

• Student Health and Wellness for Central Student Government – Senior Policy Advisor
• LEAD Advisory Board – President
• Black Student Union – Programming Chair

Adetola plans to take a gap year to work with underserved populations, and hopefully spend several months in Nigeria. Long term plans include attending and completing medical school.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

This community has equipped Adetola with all of the tools to be successful not only during her time at Michigan, but also as she embarks on all post graduation adventures. Although LEAD has gifted her a plethora of academic and professional opportunities, from campus resources to internships to interview workshops and everything in between, the most valuable resource in LEAD has been all of the people she have been fortunate to meet. Adetola’s fellow scholars here have become some of her best friends and closest colleagues, while LEAD advisors have consistently been her biggest supporters and even role models. All of the driven, successful women she has been able to talk with during Women in LEADership each year have changed her life, even if it was in a seemingly small way. Adetola will forever attribute her successful college transition, as well as the fire that kept her at Michigan largely to feeling at home with LEAD.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

Adversity is inevitable, but it doesn’t shape your life–your resiliency does.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Lean into your community, especially your LEAD community. They may not have all the answers, because no one ever does, but they will guide you while you figure it out and support you the whole way.

• LEAD
• MSBO
• Men’s Club Lacrosse

Alexander plans to begin working for KPMG in financial valuation, and always continue to complete goals that make him happy.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

The LEAD community has been very supportive during Alexander’s time on campus. 

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

Overall the most important lesson that Alexander has gained from Michigan is to be humble no matter what.

• Comprehensive Studies Program
• YMCA Swim Instructor

Amaya plans to take a gap year immediately after graduating. Long term plans include attending grad school for an master’s degree, then become licensed and provide therapy as a clinical social worker

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

LEAD provided Amaya with a community of support and resources to succeed in her education.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

Michigan has taught Amaya that she can do anything she puts her mind to.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Enjoy your time at this school and Go Blue!

• BBUS – Executive
• HEADS – Treasurer
• EnspiRED – Executive
• Wolverine Pathways – PathLeader

Bolaji plans to enter the workforce by doing Financial Analysis at American Airlines HQ. Long term plans include pursuing entrepreneurship.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

Bolaji was able to meet some of his best friends through LEAD.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

Always strive to believe in yourself.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Life is gonna keep moving whether you are coming along for the ride or not.

• Zeta Omega Eta
• Wolverine Support Network
• Undergraduate Psychology Society
• Psi Chi
• Health Sciences Scholars Program
• Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program

Caitlyn plans to attend UM’s School of Social Work for my master’s in the Fall 2022 and graduate Fall 2023. Long term plans include becoming a social worker and working in a community in the southern part of the state such as Lansing, Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, or Detroit.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

LEAD provided many opportunities for professional development and networking with LEAD peers and other alumni.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

Imposter syndrome is very real, and it doesn’t go away even when you’re about to graduate, but it’s such a common feeling amongst everyone so you aren’t alone.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Allow yourself to grow and change because you’re still learning about yourself and what you want- it’s okay if you don’t have all the answers because none of us do, even if we look like we do.

• SAPAC

Kate plans to begin working as an operating room nurse. Long term plans include going back to graduate school after taking a couple years to work.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

LEAD helped make a big university setting feel much smaller. Kate was able to meet one of her good friends Cova through LEAD.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

Michigan taught Kate to take advantage of every opportunity that is made available to students.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Go outside of your comfort zones and try new things. College is the time to take risks and take advantage of all the opportunities available.

• Marian E. Wright Writing Center
• Sweetland Writing Center
• MRun

Cherish plans to become a part-time Producer on future media projects and a freelance writer. Long term goals include graduate studies through a masters program, in areas of Digital Studies and UX Research and Design.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

To be honest, regarding LEAD, Cherish has always felt the most support from the Sr. Associate Directors of Student Engagement. She was encouraged to apply to opportunities like the weekend meeting alumni in NYC my freshman year and helped her find ways to be as engaged as I wanted to be, like the creation of the Flint Ambassador role that Cherish held during sophomore year on LAB. They have also been especially supportive and encouraging, telling about Leadershape which ended up being an amazing opportunity in early 2020, and in this past year, being a letter of rec writers. As a whole, LEAD has always felt like something foundational to Cherish’s Michigan experience.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

The biggest lesson Michigan has taught Cherish is that what matters is the people you surround yourself with. Not only in a networking type of way although Michigan definitely teaches you to be aware of its network. Instead she means it in the sense that the people you spend your time with, exploring Ann Arbor, participating in organizations, and imagining the future will help you become a better and more educated person as much as the classes do.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Take advantage of what LEAD offers to you: the social connection to fellow students of color, the networking and professional development opportunities, and of course: the free food. And don’t worry about planning out your whole life: think about just the next best step.

• Salto Dance Company
• Phi Delta Epsilon – Pre-Medical Fraternity
• Detroit Partnership Volunteering

Cloe plans to work in a clinical setting as an Intraoperative Neurophysiologist in addition to applying for medical school. Long term goals include eventually attending the chosen medical school after a gap year.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

LEAD community always served as a source of home-like comfort on campus for celebrating achievements and voicing any concerns.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

Strive to make conversations with everyone that is around, because everyone has an interesting story.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Make the most of the events that are provided to you by the LEAD team. Cloe personally benefited positively from every meeting that she had the chance of attending.

• Alpha Gamma Delta
• Community-Led Interpreters For Medical Equity (CLIME) – President
• Empty Mug Records – PR and Social Media Coordinator

Covadonga plans to take time for herself to decide future goals but does have a potential interest in working in entertainment such as the publicity field.

• BECO
• Urop
• Club Water Polo

Darian plans to work in a two year engineering rotational program with Danaher. Long term plans include heading to graduate school to receive either an MBA or masters in industrial and operations engineering.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

LEAD helped provide support and make Darian’s college experience possible. Connected him to other communities and opportunities vital to success. Thus he is extremely appreciative for LEAD Scholars which connected him with the UROP program.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

Self-advocacy is imperative but additionally using your advocacy to reach communities which can assist you.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Use LEAD Scholars as a resource, check in with yourself, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

• National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE)
• Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Sciences (MANRRS)
• African Student Association (ASA)
• M-SPARK (Electric Motorcycle Racing)

After graduation, David plans on immediately entering the workforce as a place such as KLA, SONY, or Microsoft. David’s long term plans are to move to Boston, get Master’s Degree, and travel around Europe to places such as England, Spain, etc.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

From free food to fun, engaging events, finally topping it off with some of the best people he has ever met, David acknowledges that there isn’t much more to ask for in terms of support and comfortability.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

It is never too late to reach out and build a community, regardless of how many people it may have.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Even if school is stressing you out, remember to always take care of yourself physically, mentally, spiritually, and definitely financially.

• Lead Advisory Board

David intends to take some time for himself following graduation to figure out his plans. Long term plans include working in the user experience field ideally as a UX researcher.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

LEAD has been a great resource for meeting friends, networking, or even just asking for advice. Volunteering with LAB has been a great opportunity to gain leadership experience and gave David a chance to give back to such a great community.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

Michigan has taught David that through unknowns and difficulties, sticking through it can be super beneficial. Both LEAD and Michigan have also taught David that if you need help there are so many resources available that are just a quick ask away.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

David would advise his fellow LEAD scholars to take advantage of all the resources available at Michigan and with LEAD.

• Ford Intern – Software Developer

David plans to work full time at Amazon as a software engineer. Long term goals include becoming a Software Product Manager and starting a company in tech after growing in the industry for a few years.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

The LEAD community helped David to stay connected during the difficult times these past few years. It also helped David improve his networking and interpersonal skills which helped him communicate and connect with potential employers.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

The biggest lesson Michigan taught David personally was to be proactive. In college and beyond, your performance is mainly determined by what you want to do. If you don’t talk to professors, or go to office hours, or contact employers. You won’t see any results. You have to be the person to initiate contact in order to get what you are trying to achieve.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Participate. You will have the most opportunities and discover new things you enjoy if you are active and take part often.

• Michigan Marching Band
• Michigan Basketball Band

Dejanae plans to take time for travel before beginning the pursuit of employment. Long term plans are to work as a Software Developer.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

LEAD supported Dejanae by allowing for easy access to many resources that have helped Dejane in her time at Michigan.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

Michigan has taught Dejanae perseverance. Always continue to push forward and you will achieve many things.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Take advantage of the resources LEAD provides.

• oSTEM
• NERDS

Dylan plans to begin preparing for medical school applications immediately after graduation. Long term plans include actually applying and matriculating into medical school.

• Phi Chi Theta Professional Business and Economics Fraternity
• Maize Club Soccer
• LSA Student Government

Dylan plans to work as an investment banking analyst in Chicago after graduating. Long term plans include attending graduate school for an MBA.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

As a freshman, the LEAD community immediately provided Dylan with a family on campus. LEAD helped him develop professionally, academically and socially throughout the duration of his undergraduate experience. Through the foundation of having some of the brightest, most kind-hearted people and fun, creative events – LEAD was able to make the time spent at Michigan amazing. Dylan is thankful for this community and all of the donors that have helped structure it!

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

The University of Michigan taught Dylan personally the valuable lesson of resilience – how to respond to adversity failure. Failure is inevitable, and coming into college it was hard to successfully handle or manage well. Now, he tries to accept failure with a smile and grow from it. It’s imperative to be able to get up, learn and move on from all experiences. “You can’t get too high on highs or too low on lows!”

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Step outside your comfort zone! Try new things, join new clubs, meet new people – college is the optimal place to explore and discover things you may be passionate about. Additionally make sure to give back to your communities on campus! Paying it forward is so valuable in all stages of life, and in college – it contributes towards the growth of the University.

• POSSE Scholar
• FYE Program Assistant
• ALA 171 Facilitator for 3 Semesters
• ALA 471/472 Facilitator for 3 Semesters
• Student Lead Coordinator for ALA 171 and ALA 471/472 for 3 Semesters

Eryn plans to complete a Master’s in Public Health after graduation. Long term plans include attending medical school and becoming a psychiatrist.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

Through LEAD Eryn was able to meet three of her closest friends at Michigan. Additionally LEAD provided a source of family and support system especially since Eryn was an out-of-state student.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

Take advantage of resources and opportunities since you never know where they may lead to.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Take advantage of all the programs, events, and resources LEAD has to offer.

• MASA

Ethan plans to pursue graduate studies following graduation.

• President of Block Club
• Student Government Director Of Foreign Outreach

Frankie plans to apply for graduate school, while also starting a research internship position. Long term plans include becoming a social researcher in urban studies.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

Being a part of Flint lead Scholars was an amazing community. We checked up on each other because we had similar goals in common.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

Michigan taught Frankie to be individually unique and stand up for what is right.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Don’t give up on who you are.

• Psych Care Worker (at Mott Children’s Hospital)

Ghyanka plans to take two gap years where she will work at a hospital in Chicago in order to prepare for applying to med school. Long term goals include completing medical school.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

They provided so many resources and support during tough times.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

If your plans don’t work out it’s just because there’s much better out there waiting for you.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

It’s never too late to start doing what you love.

• M-HEAL’s (MICHIGAN HEALTH ENGINEERED FOR ALL LIVES)
• PeriOperative Project Lead
• Delta Gamma Xi Chapter Director of Scholarship
• Instructional Aide for Biophysical Thermodynamics (BIOMEDE 221) / Circuits and Systems (BIOMEDE 211)

Giovana plans to move to Boston, Massachusetts after graduation. Long term plans include starting a career in the pharmaceutical industry as a rotational Assistant Engineer/Scientist at Bristol Myers Squibb.

• Wolverine Soft Studio – Programming Lead

Jackson plans to begin moving into Software Development.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

The LEAD community gave Jackson fun events to look forward to and allowed him to network with a number of people.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

It is okay to fail a lot and still be successful.

• University of Michigan Symphony Band
• Eros Quartet
• University of Michigan Saxophone Ensemble
• YDSA

Jason intends to pursue a Master’s degree in Saxophone Performance and eventually work towards becoming a professional conductor and chamber musician.

• ResStaff Coordinator of South Quad and Fletcher Hall
• Instructors Aid for 2 semesters for EECS 201
• Residential College – Member

John Paul plans to begin working at Epic Systems in Wisconsin as a Software Developer in July. Long term plans include returning to grad school for the pursuit of teaching Computer Science at an undergraduate level.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

LEAD was always there as a source of support and encouragement, especially when John Paul was in an unfamiliar space or didn’t know that many people.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Take advantage of all of the resources available to you here even if they may take some time to seek out.

• College of Engineering Honors Program
  Honors Capstone Project – designing, building and testing a Lane Centering Assist benchmarking device for Subaru
• Joseph plans to immediately pursue full-time employment with Lockheed Martin Space. Long term plans include getting his master’s sponsored by Lockheed Martin and continuing to work up in the company chain.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

Joseph gained a lot of professional career help during earlier semesters as well as made some great friends in the program which made the rest of his Michigan experience much more enjoyable.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

Be yourself, be confident and do what you love.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Make the most out of your time at this school while you have it. We go to the greatest school in the world and although school is important, make sure that you leave this place with memories that will last a lifetime.

• BliSS – Product Manager
• Social Responsibility Ann Arbor Interfraternity Council – President

Joshua plans to start traveling in Israel with Birthright and then explore Greece, Budapest, Croatia, Amsterdam. Long term plans include becoming a Product Manager at the corporation Fanduel.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

As a freshman, the LEAD fall retreat was the first time Joshua ever left his comfort zone at Michigan, and it was an amazing chance to make new friends and meet new people. He still talked to a few of the people that he met on that experience and Joshua always felt like there was a community to lean back on at Michigan whenever feeling a little unsure of individual identity.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

Michigan taught Joshua to believe in himself, as cliche as it sounds. Before coming to Michigan self-confidence was a struggle but after working hard in school and personally, Joshua is proud now of who he has become and continues to grow.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Try to say no to opportunities as little as possible. The four years at Michigan go by quicker than you think, and the more you say yes to opportunity and change the more amazing things that will unfold for you.

• Lead Advisory Board – Vice President

Juan Luis plans to enter the workforce by doing Deloitte Risk & Financial Advisory in NYC. Long term goals include working on venture capital.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

Juan Luis considers the LEAD community a crucial part of his success at Michigan. From the very first year LEAD was a welcoming organization from top to bottom and made it really easy to find a supportive community.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Engage with your LEAD community, what you invest in this community will pay off above and beyond.

• Michigan Marching Band
• Tau Beta Sigma (National Honorary Co-Ed Band Sorority)
• Sweetland Peer Writing Center

Kelly will be attending Harvard Graduate School of Education for Teaching and Teacher Leadership to become a high school English teacher.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

The LEAD Community was the first group of people to welcome me to the university. The events my freshman year allowed me to meet some amazing people in my cohort and helped me adjust to college!

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

Embrace everything, and pause to appreciate both the good and not-so-good moments! That might help make leaving Ann Arbor and this beautiful, inspiring campus community a little easier. As Dr. Seuss once said, “Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile because it happened.”

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

You’re only an undergrad once, so take advantage of it while you can! Go to those free events, explore random clubs, say hi to new people…try and do everything that interests you!

• optiMize: Project Creator & Leader – Project Sunrise
• Sling Health: Project Technical Lead
• LEAD Scholars: Dearborn Campus Delwgate
• GE Fund Associate
• Alpha Theta Delta: VP of DEI
• CoE Rumler Award Nominee

Khalif plans on moving to Seattle in order to work as a Product Manager at Microsoft. Long term plans include striving to become a public figure and millionaire by 26 as a result of starting a company focussed on social justice advocacy.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

For Khalif, LEAD provided a community at all three campuses for him to connect with, while also making the transfer process from the Dearborn campus smooth and helpful. Additionally the emergency fund made graduating in 4yrs possible when Khalif needed the assistance and the network generated has become invaluable. Khalif wishes to thank LEAD so much for all that has been done.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

Khalif has learned that he is not invincible and can’t do everything alone. Therefore it is important to reach out for help when you need it and offer help when you can. It takes a village to achieve success.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Khalif advises fellow scholars to not be afraid of being honest with yourself. Adult life is filled with scary & new things and you have to truly understand yourself to know a ‘good’ fear of the unknown (something you should push into) & a ‘bad’ fear (something you legitimately shouldn’t do). Understand which is which and always challenge that ‘good’ fear and understand why the ‘bad’ fear is bad in the first place. Also stay hydrated.

• Camp Kesem – camp counselor
• AMP (alumni, marketing, PR) – coordinator board member
• Dean’s list and university honors each year for at least one semester

Kourtni intends to move back home to New Jersey and start working in a new nurse grad residency program. Additionally when possible Kourtni would like to catch up on some traveling. Long term plans include being happy and content with life, going back to school to become a midwife, more traveling, and moving out.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

Kourtni was able to meet a lot of friends through the LEAD community which was really helpful transitioning as an out of state freshman. LEAD emergency fund was there to help with pop up fees for nursing school and a broken laptop that otherwise wouldn’t have been affordable. Kourtni also got involved with Camp Kesem through a LEAD event and Camp Kesem has become an organization that will forever be in her heart.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

The biggest lesson is that the reward for hard work and getting through challenges is 100% worth it. Whether it be increased self confidence or ending in a better, more knowledgeable place than you started, challenging yourself is always worth it.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Trust that everything will work out and don’t be afraid to make the wrong decision or change your mind or path. Be honest with yourself on how you feel about certain things so that you can build the foundation of a really great life with the resources at U of M and through LEAD.

• Cartilage Healing and Regeneration Laboratory – Graduate Research Assistant
• Extracorporeal Life Support Laboratory – Biomedical Engineer for Implantable Pediatric Artificial Lung
• Human Powered Submarine
• Teacher’s Assistant for the Biomedical Engineering Department
• Club Tennis
• Central Student Government – Secretary

Lauren plans to enter into industry to gain the experience that is necessary for advancing in the medical field. She is also interested in considering a career in medical applications surrounding organ transplants, artificial organs, tissue regeneration, and medical devices. Long term plans include potentially pursuing medical school after industry to gain an MD/PhD.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

There was always constant support through Lauren’s entire undergraduate and now graduate degree at UM. She will be forever thankful for all the encouragement and connections the LEAD community has been given to build her career.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

As an out-of-state student, Michigan encouraged the importance of building, interacting, and supporting your community and finding a family in a home away from home. This university has been her home for approximately 4 years, and she has met so many fantastic, intelligent, and genuine people who have helped shape her career and vice versa. Ultimately Lauren believes that this has made her a better person. University of Michigan has taught her more about herself and her love of wanting to gain the knowledge that will enable the integration of material science, medicine, environmental conditions and behavior all together. Not only that, but it has also brought Lauren into a community who supports each other so that we can all reach for the stars, meeting goals, and setting even higher ones.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Never afraid that you are doing too much. Involve yourself across all different fields through multiple organizations. Don’t be afraid to try something outside your comfort zone. There are so many incredible people to meet and who want to help build you up to be the absolute best leader you can be, and this is the way to expand your connections. Also, get to know the faculty and fellow peers in your department. Having a family in engineering is the best feeling that you can possibly imagine and being able to help your fellow faculty and peers in any way you can is also the best feeling in the world.

• National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE)
• NSBE Jr. – Chair
• HEADS
• EnspiRED

Marcus plans to work at a major technology company as a Program Manager, Supply Chain Engineer, or related engineering roles. Long term plans include eventually wanting to start up a company in some sort of technology industry.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

LEAD was one of the first communities that Marcus had coming to UofM, ever since the first LEAD event where we spent part of the day with our cohort. He literally met some of best friends, 2 of which are currently his roommates (Bolaji and Quentin). In addition to this, LEAD always hosted events that I genuinely enjoyed, and there was always some nice merch. The financial support LEAD provided throughout his time at Michigan has been critical. Marcus honestly does not know if he would have come to Michigan without help from LEAD. On top of all of this, the LEAD staff has been amazing!!!! Each and everyone he has come into contact with are real genuine, cool people that seem to have his best interest at heart. Marcus cannot thank LEAD enough for everything they have assisted him with. Marcus hopes to one day be able to contribute to the LEAD mission and help out in whatever ways he can. If there are any programs he will support after graduating, LEAD is definitely one of them!

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

Every person has their own path and benchmark for success. You can not base your progress and life around what other people are doing or thinking, because doing so only limits yourself and diminishes your mental health. That same energy can be applied to conquering your mission and moving forward.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

It sounds super cliché, but enjoy every single moment because the time flies by so quickly. Even faster than high school.

• National Society of Black Engineers – Academic Excellence Committee and Implementation Committee Member
• Society of Women Engineers – Team Tech (Mechanical Lead)
• UROP – Particle Physics Undergraduate Research Assistant
• M-STEM Academies – Participant

Margaret plans to attend a Master’s program for Mechanical Engineering or Design. Long term plans include working in industry or working with Engineers without Borders to build a more equitable world for all.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

The LEAD scholarship made it possible for Margaret to come to UMich, and the knowledge that half of her school expenses were paid for became very reassuring

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

Margaret learned that she can do whatever she sets my mind to.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Believe in yourself! Even when it feels like you can’t do it, you can!

• Latinidad Magazine – Editor in Chief
• optiMize Fellow
• PALMA – Vice President
• OJEADA Magazine – Co-founder

Maria plans to eventually become a curator in a museum.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

LEAD provides Maria with a community of people who she could turn to for help and guidance in uncertain moments of her college career.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

Michigan taught Maria to be humble, authentic, and open-minded.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Always keep an open mind about your future career path–and to enjoy your college years for what they are.

• Michigan Artist Citizen
• DEI Ambassador of We Are Queens
• Bridge Scholar
• Residential Advisor
• Black Scholars In Dance Co Chair
• Arts In Color Exec Member
• Co Director for Toni Frazier’s work in Forward Facing Power Center Umich Dance Department Production
• Summer Bridge Peer Advisor
• Collage Performance

Mariah is currently waiting to hear back from various internships and jobs. Long term goals include planning to pursue a career working with various artists under the facets of dance, choreography, videography, directing, and editing.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

They provided tremendous support mentally, emotionally, and physically through the loving community of peers and mentors and through the events throughout the semesters.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

Take it step by step, in overwhelming situations, just think about the next thing you need to do first, and you will get it all done. You can do it.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Keep going. Never give up. When you think it’s over, it’s not. Lean on your support system and community. Keep pushing through. You WILL make it.

• Phi Sigma Rho Engineering Sorority
• Michigan Materials Society
• M-STEM

Marisa plans to work at Procter & Gamble (P&G) in Cincinnati, OH as a Materials, Process, and Delivery Engineer.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

Marisa felt as though the LEAD community was always there. She knew if she ever needed advice or just someone to talk to they would be there. Also, LEAD allowed Marisa to connect with other LEAD scholars and to network with alumni.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

The University of Michigan taught Marisa that she didn’t have to sacrifice her happiness to be successful. It taught her to surround herself with those that treated her with kindness and respect. It also taught Marisa that saying no sometimes is more than okay and sometimes necessary.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

You were admitted to this school and to this amazing LEAD scholars program for a reason! You are just as capable as anyone else in this university to be successful and to find happiness.

• NSBE
• SEPi

Michaela plans to become a Project engineer for Stryker AO GEDP following graduation. Long term plans include taking on more projects and design engineering.

• Alpha Kappa Psi Professional Business Fraternity
• Michigan Community Scholars Program
• Smile Bringer Singers
• Ross Summer Connection
• Mikayla plans to begin working as an Analyst at JP Morgan Asset Management. Long term goals consist of finding a career that combines social impact and business. Additionally one day
• Mikayla hopes to move to London to live and work.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

Being a part of the LEAD Community has provided amazing resources and a great sense of community within the program. Since Mikayla always knew she had support from the LEAD community, whether it was academic, social, or financial, which helped give her a sense of belonging on this campus. Also Mikayla always enjoyed coming to the LEAD events because of how fun and welcoming the environment was — all the LEAD scholars and staff were so welcoming, and it really felt like a family. She will be forever grateful for the connections she has made through this program, and Mikayla is so proud to be a LEAD Scholar.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

You have to be comfortable being uncomfortable in order to grow personally and professionally.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Lean into every experience that Michigan and LEAD offers you! Though they can be hard to find sometimes, there are so many resources and people here that will help you immensely throughout college. Continue to branch out and try new things. Time really flies by, so don’t let it pass you up!

• Seven Mile
• BULA
• Zeta Omega Eta

Nadia plans to focus on taking some time for herself before law school. Specifically Nadia hopes to spend a lot of time traveling this summer. Long term plans include attending Wayne State Law School as a result of receiving a full-ride.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

The LEAD community especially helped Nadia to settle into college life as a freshman. The community was warm and welcoming and gave a sense of home away from home.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

The biggest lesson Michigan taught Nadia was to never count herself out. Even though self doubt had been a struggle in the past and the time spent here has revealed to Nadia that she is good enough.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Enjoy your youth while you have it….college goes by so fast.

• University Musical Society Ticket Office Student Leader
• Center for Educational Outreach College Access and Success Ambassador

Nathan plans to pursue Graduate School. Long term goals include landing a performing job.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

LEAD helped Nathan throughout the time spent in Michigan because there were so many events and opportunities to connect with people it may have otherwise been hard to access. It also helped Nathan to branch out as well as learn about different backgrounds and experiences. The LEAD team is also just so supportive of every single LEAD scholar, so it was nice to know that there was always someone wishing the best for all students.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

The biggest lesson Michigan taught Nathan is that there are endless possibilities for what you can do and where you can end up in life, it all depends on your wants and decisions.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Stay involved as much as you can, not just with LEAD, but with any opportunity there is to be a part of a community or organization of students.

• LAB
• Global Investments Committee
• Phi Kappa Psi

Noah plans to begin working in finance in New York. Long term goals include owning/running an impact focused private equity or venture capital firm.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

LEAD gave Noah a community of friends, mentors, resources, and people he could talk to, bond with, while growing socially, academically, and professionally.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

Michigan teaches you how to work hard. You have peers that are making straight A’s, getting jobs at amazing companies, starting entrepreneurial ventures, or other out of this world accomplishments. It created an environment of positive peer pressure. Noah wanted to be a part of “the leaders and best” and be looked at the same level as those around him. Thus he truly had to put in 110% during college to make it to this finish line. Noah is grateful that he had a community and friends to push him to that level.He doesn’t believe that he would have had the same opportunities Michigan afforded me anywhere else. That is why he is proud to be a Wolverine and a LEAD Scholar.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Do not forget to take the time to give back. This is quite important. All of the help Noah personally received as a freshman including mentors, academic help, and professional contacts have shaped him into the individual he is today. Thus he did his best to give back through LAB, tutoring, mentoring, and other roles as an upperclassmen. It’s up to the next generation to do the same and help those that come after you. LEAD plays an essential role in underrepresented student life at University of Michigan, and it’s important to keep it that way.

• Kinesiology study group leader
• Tutor
• T.A.

Olivia plans to apply to Occupational Therapy School after graduation. Long term plans include becoming an occupational therapist and potentially opening a practice.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

LEAD made Olivia feel welcomed everywhere she went throughout campus and encouraged her to embrace diversity and who she is as a person.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

Michigan taught Olivia to work hard but always remember to have fun and continue to seek out new and different experiences.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Introduce yourself to new people and don’t be afraid to try new experiences. Everyone else is just as nervous as you and in the end you’ll be glad you did!

• National Society of Black Engineers

Patrick plans to stay in Southeast Michigan and work in the automotive industry, specifically the growing electric vehicle industry. Long term plans include getting involved with design and research opportunities in the automotive industry.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

The LEAD community has provided many opportunities to network and connect with employers over Patrick’s time here. They have also organized events to de-stress and come together as a community to help each other.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

The biggest lesson Patrick has learned at Michigan is that your success in endeavors corresponds to the time and effort you put into them.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Get involved in every opportunity you can and don’t be afraid to ask others in the community for support.

• NSBE – General Member

Quentin plans to begin work in the tech industry after graduation.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

LEAD was able to give Quentin community as well support that was there whenever it was needed.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

Anyone can be a profitable connection, in more ways than financially alone.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Embrace the time with other LEAD Scholars.

• Black Film Society – Creator/ President

Reyana plans to become the director of Diverso’s Black Writers in Focus Summer Fellowship Program. Long term plans include television writing and directing.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

It was helpful to always have staff to reach out to for resources and information when needed.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

Time management between everyday life, classes, and any other extracurricular activities.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Make sure you take time to explore Ann Arbor!

• Basement Arts – Artistic Director
• Dept. of Theatre & Drama Student Demands and Accountability Plan – Co-author
• 2021 MLK Spirit Award Winner
• UMS 21st Century Artist Intern

Ruby plans to begin acting in Theatre, TV, and Film or pursue Arts Administration in Los Angeles or New York City.

• Henderson House Service Committee – Vice President (March 2020-May 2021)
• Lead Facilitator in the Identity, Diversity, and Organizations Program
• Lead Fellow in the Center for Positive Organizations +LAB
• Semester in Detroit – Spring 2019
• GIEU Japan Study Abroad – 2018 Cohort

Ryan plans to take on a full-time position in the HR Rotational Development Program at Whirlpool. 

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

The LEAD community was a place where Ryan always knew he could find community, no matter where he was on campus. Whether it was running into a fellow LEAD scholar on campus, going to a mentor for help, or looking to the LEAD support team for guidance, Ryan always knew he had support from LEAD. This was an essential part of his success at UM.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Take advantage of LEAD! There are so many learning opportunities, people to connect with, and resources available to you. Use them!

• Basement Arts
• Making films with my peers during Covid
• Working on independent projects with theatre and film

Sofia plans to move to LA and audition as much as possible for potential roles. Long term plans include pursuing acting, continuing to produce films with my peers, and hopefully become a successful film actress.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

LEAD gave Sofia the opportunity to study at the University of Michigan. Additionally they have provided an amazing and supportive community that makes her proud to take part in.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

Sofia’s time at Michigan has taught her that one’s greatest accomplishments come from working with one’s peers and engaging on the communal level.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

If you pursue something, make your own opportunities. This school is filled with resources and most importantly very resourceful people, lean on that and let your passion fuel what you decide to do in your time here. Nothing is too ambitious and don’t get stuck in the practical.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

If Tamiya had any problems whether it be personal or financial issues, she knew that she had LEAD’s support.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

The biggest lesson Michigan taught Tamiya was to only do things that make you happy. Tamiya recognized that she has to live for herself and not others.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Follow your heart. Only do things that make you happy and get you closer to your goals whatever those may be.

• Phi Mu Alpha Music Director

Tex plans to audition for graduate schools immediately after graduation. Long term goals include continuing to teach and performing music. 

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

The community was full of very helpful resources like free awesome food, great professional advice, and the financial support that opened up many avenues.

Tiarra plans to consider immediately entering the workforce after graduating. 

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

As a result of being in the LEAD community, Tiara has considered her association with the group a beneficial source of help whenever it may have been needed during her time on campus. 

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Tiara recommends that her fellow LEAD Scholars try to take time for establishing friendships in the midst of their daily routines.

• Black Business Undergraduate Society
• Black Student Union
• Bridge Scholars Plus
• National Pan-Hellenic Council
• Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.

Currently Tihnae is debating continuing schooling for a Master’s degree at University of Michigan. Tihnae’s long term goals include working with nonprofit corporations that focus on community change.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

LEAD helped in a lot of ways. Before COVID it was quite fun going to in-person social events to see LEAD friends. LEAD also has been a really good place for resources on campus. The community does a great job sharing jobs, internships and other campus resources that they think might be useful to other members in LEAD. In general LEAD just provides a community where if something is needed such as, advice, resources or just friendships, it is possible to find something in LEAD. Tihnae is quite thankful to have been a part of this community.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

The biggest lesson Michigan has taught Tihnae is that things might be hard and they might even get harder but there is always a source of help somewhere and nine times out of ten the outcome is worth those hard times.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

The advice that Tihnae would give to fellow LEAD Scholars would be to take advantage of what is offered. Even if everything that is offered might not be applicable to the student, at least take the time to know about it because it might be useful in the future or to someone else. The things that the scholars are into that are offered are quite helpful and allow for the opportunity to make acquaintances with others that might have those same interests.

• Students for the Exploration and Development of Space
• Women in Aeronautics and Astronautics
• Michigan Aeronautical Science Association

Trevor plans to begin working for an Aerospace company in the propulsion division or pursuing a Master’s in Aerospace Engineering. Long term plans include being a Lead Propulsion Engineer or head of the propulsion division at an Aerospace company potentially in another country.

How did the LEAD community — including fellow LEAD scholars — assist you throughout your time at Michigan?

The community gave Trevor a sense of belonging and support that was needed during the college experience.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

You won’t always have the right answer, but what’s really important is that you know why it’s wrong and the potential for finding a resolve.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Don’t get too caught up in all the work and stress. Making meaningful connections and having memorable experiences are important too!