After graduation from Michigan, Airy will pursue a Master’s degree in Public Health. Career goal is to be an Obstetrician.

• La Casa
• Pre-Surgical Club
• Health Science Scholars Program (HSSP)
• Food Allergy Research

At Kelloggsville High, Airy played varsity tennis and ran track and cross country. She was also a class officer, co-captain of the Powerlifting Club, and founder of the Latino Student Union.

After graduation from Michigan, Amire’s career goal is to become a physical therapist and eventually have his own practice.

Interests:

• National Leadership and Success
• Youth program at the MSU Building that spreads awareness on public health

At Grand Blanc High, Amire was a member of Minority Achievement Committee Scholars and volunteered for the underprivileged. He achieved the rank of Eagle Scout with the Boy Scouts of America.

At University High, Anthony was involved in the Spanish Club, captain of the soccer team, and Sergeant-at-Arms for the NSBE. He was also a Den Leader in the Boy Scouts.

• Black students union
• Pre-Health
• PRIDE

Antonio plans on applying to PA school this upcoming cycle to continue his graduate education as a Physician Assistant. He’s also picked up a passion for the nursing profession and will also be applying to Master’s entry programs. His career goal is to work as an advanced practice provider within the emergency setting.

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

The LEAD community was so supportive through my college journey. The monthly meet ups allows me to refine specific skills worked on. It also allowed a break from school work.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

It has taught me to always excel at anything placed in front of me.

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

It may be hard right now but the payoff is great.

At Beech High, Ayana held positions with Health Occupation Students of America and the Beta Club with fiber arts cross stitch. She was also on the golf, track and field, and thrower’s teams.

After graduation from Michigan, Ayana will go into the US Air Force and explore her options after that.

• Air Force ROTC
• Michigan Aviators
• Girls who Code

After graduation from Michigan, Benjamin will explore his options.

• Literature, Science and the Arts
• Computer Science

At Scheck Hillel Community School, Benjamin was editor-in-chief for the student-led news outlet, was varsity basketball captain, and a member of the symphonic band. He plays the saxophone and piano.

After graduation from Michigan, Benjamin plans on attending graduate school at the University of Kansas for Chemistry with the ultimate goal of doing research in the computational chemistry field of study along with possible teaching.

Activities:

• CRU
• UM Chemistry Club
• Graduated before 20

After graduation from Michigan, Breanna will attend law school. Career goal is to be a lawyer.

Interests:

• La Casa
• Painter

At Western International, Breanna was captain of the JV soccer team and president of the NHS. She participated in her school’s yearbook and newspaper staffs and was a member of the dance team.

After graduation from Michigan, Brianna plans to continue working on her non profit organization and travel, while holding down a job. Career goal is to have an established and sustainable non profit organization for girls in STEM.

Interests:

• Engaged Scholars

At Detroit Edison Academy, Brianna participated in Art Club and Senior Committee and was a majorette. She worked on a Dequindre Cut mural and was a member of FIRST LEGO League Robotics.

After graduation from Michigan, Brianna plans to enroll in graduate school to pursue a Master’s degree in Architecture. Career goal is to be an Architect.

• Making Masterpieces
• Alpha Rho Chi-Iktinos (Architecture Professional Fraternity)
• The Pearl Project
• UMWaterski

At Notre Dame Prep, Brianna was a campus ministry peer leader and minister and a member of the Optimist Club. She also tutored at an elementary school and participated in Model United Nations.

At University High, Brionna was captain of the women’s varsity swim team and president of NSBE. Beyond school, she volunteered for Meal on Wheels and with her church’s Teen Choir & Ushers.

After graduation from Michigan, Brionna will take time to review all her options.

Involved in:

• NSBE

After graduation from Michigan, Brittany will enter the workforce as a registered nurse. Career goal is to become a nurse anesthetist.

At Sacred Heart Academy, Brittany was a Eucharistic minister member of She’s the First Chapter to fight gender inequality. She was vice president of the Women in Healthcare and Medicine Club.

At University Liggett, Brooke was involved with volleyball, cross country, and the Art Curators Club. She was also a member of the Student Diversity Leadership Council and tutored through Soar Detroit.

After graduation from Michigan, Brooke will focus on UX Design.  Her career goal is to become a Creative Manager.

• Health Science Scholars Program (HSSP)
• Second Year Experience

• 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.

At L’Anse Creuse North, Calebmichael was a member of the track team and acted in theatre productions. He was also recognized for earning over 100+ hours of community service.

Her ultimate academic goal is to pursue a master’s degree in Forensic Anthropology.

While at Washtenaw Community College, she participated in Mission of Mercy events and will continue to volunteer within the dental community. Cassandra attended Huron High School where she participated in the University of Michigan Youth Mentoring Program.

After graduation from Michigan, Casyana plans to attend medicine school, preferably the University of Michigan. While she’s not sure of the specialty, her ultimate career goal is to provide quality care to improve desired health outcomes overseas, starting with Haiti.

Activities:

• Minority Pre Med Club
• Pharmacy Technician at Kroger

At Novi High School, Casyana was in the French Club, ran varsity track, and was a member of Health Occupations Students of America. She speaks three languages and received a statewide award for photography.

After graduation from Michigan, Chloe will participate in a directing fellowship. Career goal is to be an Artistic Director.

Involved in:

• MUSKET
• Basement Arts

At Douglas Anderson School for the Arts, Chloe was in the International Thespian Society, was student government first vice president, and was a performer/stage manager with the Musical Theatre Dept.

After graduation from Michigan, Christian is unsure of his plans. His career goal is to be in a position where he can give back to the community.

• Preparation Initiative
• Soccer

At St. Mary’s Prep, Christian played varsity soccer all four years, founded a youth group promoting good life decisions, and volunteered for Open Door Outreach Center and Worldwide Medical Relief.

After graduation from Michigan, Clara plans to attend graduate school to get a PhD in English. Career goal is to be an Art Filmmaker.

• Students for Bernie Sanders at the University of Michigan
• Proyecto Avance: Latino Mentorship Association (PALMA)
• K-Grams
• Creative Writing Forum (Residential College)

At Pioneer High School, Clara was first violin in the Pioneer Symphony Orchestra. She volunteered for political campaigns and was a two-time student speaker for TEDxYouth Initiative.

After graduation from Michigan, Daisy plans to work abroad. Career goal is to be a Mechanical Engineer.

• La Casa
• MEZ Mentorship

At Cass Tech, Daisy was on the FIRST Robotics Team and the Congress of Communities Youth Council, focused on leadership, civic engagement, Latinx history and culture, mentorship, and educational justice.

After graduation from Michigan, Daniel Work plans to enter the workforce before enrolling in graduate school to earn his Master’s (in Computer Science) or MBA. Career goal is to be in  consulting, finance, or something related in software.

At Stoney Creek High, Daniel was a board member of Health Occupations Students of America, participating and placing top five in multiple competitions. He was also a defense attorney for Teen Court.

After graduation from Michigan, Deborah plans to attend graduate school earn a Master’s in Public Health (MPH). Career goal is to work in an environment dedicated to making healthcare devices for low-resource areas.

• African Students Association
• National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE)
• The Village Project

At Lincoln High, Deborah competed with the Huron Valley Volleyball Club and was a drum major and drumline section leader in the marching band. She also plays piano, saxophone, and percussion.

After graduation from Michigan, Edmund plans to attend Law School or Business School. Career goal is to become a Patent Lawyer, while practicing Mechanical Engineering.

• Michigan Marching Band (MMB)

At U of D Jesuit, Edmund was an anchor for the school, percussion/drumline section leader for the symphonic/marching band, and Club President for Model UN. He was also a Life Scout for the Boy Scouts.

After graduation from Michigan, Elisa will attend grad school. Career goal is to work for a special interest group or work on a political campaign.

• Alpha Gamma Delta
• Food Recovery Network
• Appreciate + Reciprocate

At TC Williams High, Elisa was a member of Grassroots Alexandria and a tutor for immigrant Latino students. She also has played soccer and was co-captain of a club travel soccer team.

After graduation from Michigan, Ignacio plans to work in software development. Career goal is unknown for now.

Activities:

• Michigan International Student Society

At Colegio San Ignacio de Loyola, Ignacio played football as captain, quarterback, and tight end. He served his community as a volunteer tutor and a physician assistant for the elderly.

At Whitney M. Young High, Isabella was captain and event manager for two dance companies and president of Hope for Haiti. She was also Fundraising Board Member for Chicago Dance Marathon.

• Dance 2XS
• Ross Retail Club
• Mash Magazine
• Michigan Business Women
• Zeta Tau Alpha

After graduation, Isabella plans to work in the fashion industry in New York City. Her career goal is to stay involved with fashion and travel, while also working in finance.

After graduation from Michigan, Isabella plans to work professionally in the dance industry. Career goal is to become a Professional Dancer and Choreographer.

Activities:

• Dance 2XS Michigan Member
• B.L.A.C. at Michigan
• We Are Queens Marketing Director

At Northville High, Isabella was Student Body President and a member of the Diversity Youth Program. She was part of the Dance Dimensions Company for 13 years and instructor/mentor for five years.

After graduation from Michigan, Izayik will attend graduate school. Career goal is to be a Researcher.

Activities:

• Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity
• Society of Physics Students
• Dungeons and Dragons

At Arbor Prep, Izayik was in Business Professionals of America, a top scorer in regional Quiz Bowl events, and was on the yearbook committee. Izayik sings, dances, acts, and plays the clarinet.

After graduation from Michigan, Jaleah plans to get a job in the design industry. Career goal is to be a Professional Designer.

• Black Student Union (BSU)
• Stamps in Color

While at Cass Tech, Jaleah was in track and field, cross country, and the Art Club. She was in The Future Project, where young people explore their purpose, make meaningful choices, and take action.

• Michigan Men’s basketball team – 4 year manager and current head manager

Jalen plans to pursue an internship with the G League or NBA. Long term goals include working at the front office of the NBA, becoming a director of player personnel or operations, or becoming a general manager.

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

The LEAD community assisted Jalen in finding new friends after transferring into the university which went a long way. LEAD also gave him opportunities to meet new people, connect and build very important relationships.

What’s the biggest lesson Michigan taught you?

The biggest lesson Jalen learned here was to take advantage of any opportunity, resources and people around you, because they can very well change your life for the better!

What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Get out of your comfort zone!

After graduation from Michigan, Jensen plans to work for a company whose values align with her own and in a position where she can make a difference. Career goal is to maintain a leadership position in her industry.

• LEAD Scholars LAB Co-Chair
• Tridelta Sorority
• MDriven (Ross Entrepreneurship and Finance club)
• Italian club member

At Torrey Pines High, Jensen played field hockey and lacrosse and was commissioner of elections for student government. She created her own business bringing leftover food to homeless shelters.

At Stoney Creek High, Jorge played varsity soccer as goalkeeper and mentored freshmen through Link Crew. He volunteered as an English tutor to Hispanic elementary students and speaks three languages.

After graduation, Jorge plans for a job in the Finance industry. Career goal is to continue in Finance at a bank or large corporation.

• Michigan International Students Society
• Private Equity Club

While at Western International, Jose was a member of the FIRST Robotics team and received the “Rookie All Star” award. He can also build a desktop PC from parts.

After graduation from Michigan, Joseph plans to enter the workforce in the Business industry. Career goal is to be a business owner.

• LEAD
• Food Gathers
• Community Action Network
• Alpha Sigma Phi
• JD Sourcing

At Palos Verdes Peninsula, Joseph was president of the Native American Student Union and volunteered as a youth baseball coach. He is also an Eagle Scout and has founded several companies.

After graduation from Michigan, Joseph plans to attend grad school and get a master’s degree in some sort of engineering. Career goal is to work for the EPA or DEQ to protect the environment within the government.

Activities:

• M-Engin Academies
• U of M Rotaract
• Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Seminar

While at Houghton Lake High, Joseph was class valedictorian, Student Senate Class President, and captain of the varsity basketball, soccer, and track teams, and took service trips to El Salvador.

After graduation from Michigan, Joshua will join the workforce as an actuary. Career goal is to become a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries (SOA) or the Casualty Actuary Society (CAS).

• Special Youth Outreach (SYO)
• Michigan Basketball Analytics Association (MBAA)
• Student Actuaries at Michigan (SAM)
• IM Soccer

At Andover High, Josh lead the Science Team in league competitions to explore new topics in science. He was also a volunteer for Special Olympics and an intern for the Autism Eats organization.

After graduation from Michigan, Joshua plans to pursue his PhD. Career goal is to become a Professor.

• Debate
• Blue Market Union Worker
• Detroit Urban Debate League

At Paideia High School, Joshua participated in policy debate and played basketball and ultimate frisbee. At U-M, he will be a member of the LSA Honors Program and the debate team.

After graduation from Michigan, Josiah will work as a Registered Nurse. Career goal is to Work in the field of  health policy as an analyst/researcher.

• MDining
• Student Nurses Association
• Health Policy Student Association

At Monticello High, Josiah ran cross country and track, helping his 800-meter dash and 4×800-meter relay teams qualify for state finals. He was also class secretary.

After graduation from Michigan, Julien will either go into industry as an engineer or attend grad school. Career goal is to work as an engineer or scientist in an undetermined field.

Activities:

• Michigan Men’s Rowing

At Marquette Sr High, Julien played drums with the honors, marching, praise, and jazz bands. He also was involved with Nordic skiing and was team captain his senior year.

During her time at Cass Tech, Kayla participated in National Honor Society and the NAACP. She was also a member of the Pretty Brown Girls Club and the Anti-Bullying Club.

After graduation from Michigan, Kayla plans to attend grad school. SHe is weighing her options on a career goal.

Involved in:

• Michigan Gospel Chorale
• Black Student Union (BSU)
• MSTEM Academies

• 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!

After graduation from Michigan, LaKyla will continue her studies in graduate school. Her career goal is to be an Art Educator.

• Multicultural Council
• Second Year Experience
• WolverineSoft Game Development Club
• Animation Club
• Ceramics Club

While at Yorktown High, LaKyla was president of the Art Club, treasurer of the American Sign Language Honor Society, and apprentice for Arlington Fine Art. She is also a ceramist, sculptor, and writer.

After graduation from Michigan, Lynn plans to become an Independent Artist. Career goal is to continue creating her art as a main source of income.

While at the DeKalb School for the Arts, Lynn was president of the National Art Honor Society and volunteered at Emory Hospital. She also paints and plays the violin.

While at Summit Academy North, Marco was involved with student council, the Youth Equity Stewardship, and the National Honor Society. He likes art and drawing.

After graduation from Michigan, Marco plans to enter the field of video game development. Career goal is to be a prolific contributor to the potent art medium that is videogames.

At Cass Tech, Marie participated in a computer science coding club for girls. She served her community with tutoring sessions for high school freshmen and engaged in academic games competitions and dancing.

• Flowdom (dance group)
• Black Student Union
• GEECS
• WISE RP

After graduation, Marie will join the workforce full time. Career goal is to be a Computer Programmer/ Scientist.

After graduation from Michigan, Meredith will review her option, as she is unsure of her career goal.

• Curltalk
• WBCN Radio

At William Jones College Prep, Meredith was the yearbook club president and founder of the Astrology/Astronomy Club. In her free time, she volunteered with Chicago Canine Rescue and PAWS.

After graduation from Michigan, Mia will become a Nurse Practitioner.

At the Academy of Notre Dame, Mia participated in the Spanish Club, the Puzzle Club, and the Diversity Club. She was a Mathlete as well as a cross country runner.

After graduation from Michigan, Michael plans to attend graduate school. Career goal is to get involved with commercial real estate around sporting arenas/stadiums.

Activities:

• SBA
• LEAD Scholar
• Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity
• IM basketball

After graduation from Michigan, Neal plans to secure an internship or full-time job, while studying for a Master’s degree or MBA. Career goal is to start his own company.

• WCBN Sports Broadcasting
• IM Sports

While at Pioneer High, Neal was founder and president of the Debate Team. He also played tennis all four years and was a member of the Pioneer Robotics team.

After graduation from Michigan, Nick plans to become a Professional actor. Career goal is to be a Philanthropist, activist, and artist.

• MPow
• Color Cabaret

At Bradford High, Nicholas was president of the International Thespian Society, starring in theatre art productions. He sang an original song at the CIBA Theater in Chicago to the cast of Hamilton.

After graduation from Michigan, Nicholos plans to enroll in graduate schools, while taking a full time job in Animation. Career goal is to be an Animator at Disney, Activision, etc…

Activities:

• Black Student Union: Co-Chair for Community Outreach
• Creatives of Color: Head of Visual Art

At Cass Tech, Nicholos was active on the basketball team and the Student Executive Board. He also enjoys graphic design, repairing iPhones, and designing custom shirts.

After graduation from Michigan, Olivia will join the workforce as a nurse. Career goal is to become either a Nurse Practitioner or a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist.

• The Smile Bringer Singers

At Huron High, Olivia was captain of the women’s swim and dive team and a member of the student-run a capella group. She was also a private swim instructor and lifeguard.

After graduation, Ramon plans to attend graduate school. Career goal is to go into academic research.

• Band

After graduation from Michigan, Sabrina will search for a job in consulting or the healthcare system. Career goal is still undecided.

• TEDxUofM
• Sigma Delta Tau Sorority
• Michigan Mars Rover Design Team

At Dr. Michael M. Krop High, Sabrina was secretary of the mathematics honor society and VP of the Engineering Club. She was also a member of the swim team and a hospital volunteer.

After graduation from Michigan, Samantha plans to audition for shows on Broadway and/or Film/TV. Career goal is to be a Professional Actor and Musician.

• Michigan Performance Outreach Network (MPOW) – Social Media Coordinator
• La Casa
• Blank Space Workshop
• Creatives of Color
• Destino

While at Wakefield High, Samantha was a member of the cheerleading team and the Dance Club. She was also a member of the International Thespians Society and appeared in several theatre productions.

After graduation from Michigan, Shane Policy work. Career goal is to be a Politician and community organizer.

At Adrian High, Shane spoke at workshops like the ACLU and the Healthy Teen Network Conference. Shane is a community service volunteer for gun reform, to end bullying, and to reduce hate crimes.

After graduation from Michigan, Timothy plans to become a performer on Broadway/National Tour and a writer for the screen. Career goal is to be the Founder of a nonprofit for LGBTQ Youth issues.

• Color Cabaret 2020
• University Productions – “Sonnets, Soliloquies & Soul”
• Michigan Performance Outreach Workshop (MPOW) (2019-Present)

At Wayne Valley High, Timothy played flute in the marching band and hosted the school’s charity show. In addition to singing, dancing, and acting, he also plays the piano and piccolo.

• UM-Dearborn Men’s Bowling Team

Vincent plans to immediately enroll in the Masters Program at UM-Dearborn for Mechanical engineering after graduation. Long term goals include obtaining a job at a major corporation in a city closer to back home, Georgia.

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

The LEAD program has helped Vincent in more ways than he can count. While the financial assistance has been greatly appreciated, the different programs set up by the LEAD staff have provided an escape from school and have allowed him to make many friends outside of his degree field. These programs have also prepared Vincent for the future, as many skills that can not be taught in the classroom have been “passed down” in the meetings with Alumni.
What advice would you give to your fellow LEAD Scholars?

Keep moving forward no matter what.

After graduation from Michigan, Willy is weighing his options.

• Preparation Initiative
• La Casa
• optiMize

At Cass Tech, Willy was executive board member for the senior class and president of SW Detroit’s Youth Advisory Board. He was also an executive officer in the buildOn service learning program.

After graduation from Michigan, Yasine Law School. Career goal is to Lawyer/Politician.

• Roosevelt Institute of Public Policy
• Muslim Student Association

At Ann Arbor Pioneer High School, Yasine won the Horatio M. Chute Award for Outstanding Service & Achievement and was Student Council Vice President. Yasine wants to be a lawyer or politician.

After graduation from Michigan, Zion plans to attend medical school. Career goal is to be a Surgeon.

• U-M Varsity Athletics

At Oak Park & River Forest High, Zion was on the varsity gymnastics team and ran varsity track. She was in a “Girls Who Code” Summer Immersion Program and a summer actuarial program.