About
Team
CEO Staff
Antonio Junior-Robins
GEAR UP Program Manager
Antonio Junior-Robins serves as the Program Manager for the GEAR UP Program. His role is to partner with K-12 schools to deliver transformative educational services to students and families with the goal of increasing postsecondary access and success through graduation. Antonio is responsible for designing informative programs, fostering collaborative partnerships, and engaging experiences that prepare youth for life beyond high school. Antonio is excited to be on the CEO Team, working to inform, engage, and inspire the next generation of diverse leaders as they embark on the higher education journey. Antonio holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Michigan.
Da Jaunteyé Hawkins
GEAR UP Program Manager
Da Jaunteyé (DJ) Hawkins serves as the Program Manager for Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP). Her role is focused on increasing the number of Michigan students from low-income communities who are prepared to not only enter but succeed in postsecondary education. In addition to specializing in supporting student’s college access and success, DJ specializes in STEM educational experiences. She provides school based educational programs, training resources, and assistance through workshops, information sessions, and distribution of materials. In addition, DJ also manages programs and activities including campus visits.
Da Jaunteye’ holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Law and Social Thought (Pre-Law Concentration) from the University of Toledo.
Dyrel Johnson
Program Manager
Dyrel Johnson serves as Program Manager for the Center Educational Outreach. In his role, Dyrel is responsible for the development and management of the CEO Campus Visit program, the training and funding of U-M student organizations outreach initiatives through Project Inspire, and CEO’s CASA team.
Dyrel comes to CEO with a wealth of knowledge as a non-profit professional with over thirteen years of experience supporting K-12 academic, mentoring and service-learning programs in the City of Detroit and surrounding communities. As a proud product of Detroit and its school system, Dyrel is passionate about providing access to equitable opportunities that promote academic achievement to underserved students
Kim Lijana, PhD
Director
Kim Lijana, PhD, leads the University of Michigan’s Center for Educational Outreach. She is responsible for supporting and advancing U-Ms commitment to pre-college learners and under-served schools in the state of Michigan. Dr. Lijana is passionate about providing life-changing opportunities for students and has developed a strong track record for increasing post-secondary education access and success for low-income, first generation, and underrepresented students. As a college counselor in Washington DC, 100% of her seniors applied to college and submitted their FAFSA, 90% enrolled immediately following high school graduation, and 63% graduated in four years in a community where only 8% of residents hold college degrees and in a school where all students were eligible for free and reduced school lunch. Dr. Lijana also built strong relationships with educators in Detroit to improve academic achievement as the managing director for school support with the Achievement Network (ANet); ANet partner schools outpaced the state by 5 percentile points and Wayne County by 10.
Dr. Lijana holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Miami University, a Master of Arts in Teaching from The John Hopkins University, and a PhD in Higher Education from the University of Michigan. She also co-authored two books, Left Behind: Urban High Schools and the Failure of Market Reform and Using Action Inquiry in Engaged Research: An Ongoing Guide.
Corbin Palmer
Outreach and Recruitment Coordinator
Corbin Palmer serves as the Outreach and Recruitment Coordinator for the Center of Educational Outreach. He previously worked as a Human Resources Administrator and University Development Counselor where he was able to work closely with students and staff at the University level. Corbin also has experience as a Sports and Recreation Director at a non profit organization where he was able to build community with local families and students by offering after school sports programming. He is passionate about creating an inclusive community and enjoys working with a collaborative team.
Corbin holds a Bachelor of Science in Recreation and Sport Management from the University of Tennessee and a Master of Science in Sports Analytics and Management from American University.
Laura Saavedra
GEAR UP Program Director
Laura Saavedra has served as a higher education professional for over thirteen years working at multiple post-secondary institutions in several functional areas across Ohio and Michigan. Currently, she serves as the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, GEAR UP Program Director. In this role and alongside her talented team, she is excited to lead an evidence-based, data-informed organizational framework and program design that will support CEO’s strategic plan to significantly increase college access and success outcomes across the State of Michigan.
Throughout her career, she has been committed to ensuring equitable pathways of opportunity through advocating for and empowering underrepresented, first generation, and historically marginalized student groups. In addition to being a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated. Laura is a proud second generation Mexican-American, first-generation college graduate, who holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and a Master of Arts in College Student Personnel from Bowling Green State University.
Marissa Taylor, MSI
Assistant Director for Technology and Communication
Marissa Taylor champions the Center for Educational Outreach (CEO) brand and strategy statewide. With expertise in data analysis, marketing, and design thinking, she infuses the CEO team and campus community with innovative, engaging ideas that promote college access and success. As a proud Latinx-Italian college graduate, Marissa brings a wealth of personal experience to her role, advocating for first-generation students and women in STEM/IT. Her journey from a first-gen student to a female Latinx professional is a testament to her resilience and passion for education. Marissa holds a Bachelor of Arts in Rhetoric Communication and English-Creative Writing from Wheaton College, IL, and a Master of Science in Information (Library Science and Design Thinking) from the University of Michigan School of Information. Currently, she is pursuing a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology and Educational Technology at Michigan State University. Marissa’s story is one of perseverance, innovation, and a relentless commitment to empowering others through education.
Megan Ahlquist-Cheung
Data Strategy and Business Program Manager
Megan Ahlquist-Cheung serves as the Data Strategy and Business Program Manager. In this role, she supports the GEAR UP and MCAC programs through program evaluation and continuous improvement efforts. Megan believes strongly in the power of storytelling and the impact of data on the stories we tell. As a former middle school English teacher, she is passionate about improving educational opportunities for all students.
Megan holds a Bachelor of Arts in English for Secondary Education from Hope College and a Master of Arts in Educational Studies – Program Evaluation and Improvement Research from the University of Michigan.
Megan holds a Bachelor of Arts in English for Secondary Education from Hope College and a Master of Arts in Educational Studies – Program Evaluation and Improvement Research from the University of Michigan.
Michael Turner
Associate Director of K-12 Partnerships
Michael Turner serves as the Associate Director of K-12 Partnerships for the Center for Educational Outreach. Throughout the past nine years, he has worked for CEO serving in multiple capacities leading external partnerships and field programs, managing k-12 outreach initiative and currently consults U-M faculty, staff and department leads regarding best practices when exposing, engaging, and inspiring K-12 populations to post-secondary education. He is excited about streamlining and leveraging resources to create equitable space for all students to thrive. Over the last 12 years, Michael has developed expertise in community development, knowledge of U-M, K-12 and parent/guardian outreach and engagement, and working with at-risk youth.
Michael holds a Bachelors of Fine and Performing Arts with an emphasis on Theater from Southern Methodist University and a Master of Social Work from Eastern Michigan University.
Michael holds a Bachelors of Fine and Performing Arts with an emphasis on Theater from Southern Methodist University and a Master of Social Work from Eastern Michigan University.
Patrick Mullen-Coyoy
Program Manager
Patrick Mullen-Coyoy serves as the Program Manager for the Michigan College Advising Corps, supporting a cohort of 16 advisers spread across Michigan. A former adviser at Ypsilanti Community High School, he continues to nurture his passion for college access and mentorship through coaching advisers, developing trainings, and incorporating new technologies into both. Through this work, he ensures that MCAC advances its goal to inform, engage, and inspire low-income, first-generation, and historically underrepresented Michigan high school students to get to and through their postsecondary goals.
Patrick holds a Bachelor of Arts in Honors Latina/o Studies, History, and Spanish from the University of Michigan and is currently pursuing his Master of Science in Information at the University of Michigan School of Information.
Patrick holds a Bachelor of Arts in Honors Latina/o Studies, History, and Spanish from the University of Michigan and is currently pursuing his Master of Science in Information at the University of Michigan School of Information.
Sheri Samaha
Senior Program Manager
Sheri Samaha is a Senior Program Manager who implements and manages CEO outreach initiatives that include guiding and collaborating with U-M students and faculty interested in advancing their educational outreach activities. Sheri is deeply invested in U-M Outreach initiatives and serves on CEO’s Outreach Consulting Team. She has developed expertise in providing resources that support faculty led efforts with K-12 students and educators to broaden their impact and inspire them to make educational outreach a core component of their role as U-M Faculty.
Sheri holds a Bachelor of Social Work from Western Michigan University and a Master of Guidance and Counseling with a focus on Higher Education from Eastern Michigan University.
Sheri holds a Bachelor of Social Work from Western Michigan University and a Master of Guidance and Counseling with a focus on Higher Education from Eastern Michigan University.
Marchelle Olive
Administrative Coordinator
Marchelle Olive serves as CEO’s Administrative Coordinator at CEO. She handles all the administrative needs for the Center and works closely with every team within CEO. She is a knowledgeable administrator with over 10 years of experience in a variety of roles. She has supported students and multiple constituencies across campus for over 6 years at units such as Medicine and CEW+. She is passionate about finding ways to support non-traditional students and promoting educational outreach to different underserved populations. She loves music and spending time with her family. Her hobbies are dancing, singing and writing. Marchelle was a non-traditional student herself during her college journey.
MCAC Advisers
Danyale Dockery
Southfield High School for Arts and Technology
Danyale Dockery is a college adviser serving the University High School Academy on behalf of the University of Michigan. As a first-generation college student, Danyale’s role is to inspire underrepresented high school students to pursue higher education. Having studied at Michigan State University and Grand Canyon University, Danyale understands the impact of the former and current educational structure in America. Hence, in her role as a college adviser, she not only mentors her students, but also empowers them to navigate the college experience with knowledge and confidence. With a longstanding volunteer history too, it is easy to understand her passion, interest, and investment in advocacy. In her free time, you can find Danyale thumbing through historical documents and spending time with her dog Shiloh.
Gina Dossantos
Western International High School
Gina Dossantos is a first-year college adviser serving at Western International High School in Southwest Detroit. Passionate about lifting up underrepresented stories as well as the people that tell them, she has the privilege of supporting Latinx students by preparing them to be equipped and confident in their post-secondary endeavors. As a recent graduate from Madonna University, Gina brings forth her educational background in English, Spanish, and graphic design when advocating for equal opportunity in underserved communities. When she is off the clock, Gina is most likely in her pottery class, getting lost on a nature trail, or cozying up by her dog in a blanket with coffee and a good book.
Eric Griggs-Hugan
The School at Marygrove
Eric Griggs-Hugan serves as a first-year college advisor with the University of Michigan, though it isn’t his first year being an advisor. He’s advised at every level over the last 10 years. Working with an array of students ranging from middle school all the way to undergrad, it has given him the ability to be versatile and flexible to speak the language of the room. Eric has an execution-focused mindset while instilling value in the people he’s leading to go beyond the limitations they have in their mind. His mission for his work centers around being a servant leader, making sure he sets the example of the practices and principles he teaches; with everything he’s obtained over the years, he’s making a system to create better leaders today, for the problems needed tomorrow.
Eric studied at Western Michigan University, obtaining his bachelor’s in public relations with a minor in marketing. He was coached and mentored in the 1% Better Speaker’s Academy for public speaking and is currently studying in an online seminary program.
Eric studied at Western Michigan University, obtaining his bachelor’s in public relations with a minor in marketing. He was coached and mentored in the 1% Better Speaker’s Academy for public speaking and is currently studying in an online seminary program.
Jordan Herman
Jackson High School
Jordan Herman is a college and career adviser serving at Jackson High School. As a recent graduate from the University of Michigan, he uses his knowledge of the college-going process and postsecondary options to guide students as they plan their lives after high school. Knowing the barriers they may face, he is driven to support students as they knock them down and reach their educational and life goals. When he is not working with his students, he enjoys settling down with a good book or spending time in the kitchen mastering a new recipe.
Cody Jonaitis
Flint Southwestern Classical Academy
Cody Jonaitis is a recent graduate of the University of Michigan and currently serves as a member of the Michigan College Advising Corps in Flint. As a full-time adviser at Flint Southwestern Classical Academy, he promotes a robust and engaging college-going culture with both large-scale programming and individualized, one-on-one support. Through his efficient organizational skills and creative flexibility, he helps to connect students with resources that support their post-secondary goals. When not advocating for college access, Cody might be found hiking national parks, listening to political podcasts, or working on his latest art project.
Becca Kokotovich
Jalen Rose Leadership Academy
Becca Kokotovich is a college adviser at Jalen Rose Leadership Academy. She recently graduated from Central Michigan University, where she studied Communication Sciences and Disorders. As someone who is passionate about bringing equity to the education system, she enjoys helping her scholars gain knowledge about the post-secondary process and culture. By helping them research institutions, visit institutions, apply to scholarships, apply for financial aid, and make a decision, she works to provide the information she wishes she had in high school. When she’s not advising, you can find her hiking, reading, or volunteering as a puppy raiser for Leader Dogs for the Blind.
Greta Kruse
J.W. Sexton High School
Greta is a recent graduate from the University of Michigan, where she studied international studies and anthropology. At Michigan, Greta was co-president of the College Democrats at the University of Michigan her senior year. She spent this past year advising at J.W. Sexton High School in Lansing, Michigan, where she formed deep connections with the students she served and became a member of the Sexton community. She’s looking forward to experiencing the highs and lows of senior year with a new group of students and affirming the amazingness they already possess. When she’s not advising, Greta is usually listening to music, reading, or playing with her cat, Rylo.
Sam Madery
Battle Creek Central High School
Sam Madery serves as a first-year adviser at Battle Creek Central High School. A recent graduate of the University of Michigan with a BA in Linguistics, he now attends the university’s Marsal Family School of Education as a Master’s student. When he’s not busy studying, Sam is focused on ensuring that his students have the resources necessary to explore their post-secondary options. Through workshops and one-on-one meetings, he helps seniors map out their goals and the pathways to achieving them. Outside of the professional world, Sam enjoys concerts, trying new restaurants, and board sports such as surfing.
Aedin Seck
Ottawa Hills High School
Aedin Seck is a recent graduate of the University of Michigan currently serving as a college adviser at Ottawa Hills High School. With a degree in Film and Screenwriting, you can usually find Aedin happily talking about movies. With her students, she enjoys sharing her passion for writing while helping develop their essays and encouraging them to find their unique voice. In her free time, she enjoys playing tennis, reading, spending time with her two dogs, teaching herself new skills (mastering none), and exploring a newfound love for hiking. In the future, Aedin hopes to be a screenwriter, author, and anything else that sounds like fun.
Alex Shoop
Ypsilanti Community High School
Alex Shoop is a graduate from the University of Michigan with a B.S. in Biology. During his studies, Alex conducted research on Lidocaine with a focus in ionic liquids, founded a dental club, and worked as a dental assistant under a U of M alumnus. He is currently serving as a second-year college adviser through AmeriCorps with a passion to mitigate inequities in higher education. This service has helped develop his passion for education as a social determinant of health. He recently launched a non-profit organization to foster growth in his own community of Muskegon, MI in both post-secondary education and oral health.
In his free time, as a former collegiate athlete at Ave Maria University, he enjoys staying updated with college football and basketball. Alex has a long affiliation within the Oakridge High School community and was inducted into the Muskegon Area Sports Hall of Fame upon graduation in 2018.
In his free time, as a former collegiate athlete at Ave Maria University, he enjoys staying updated with college football and basketball. Alex has a long affiliation within the Oakridge High School community and was inducted into the Muskegon Area Sports Hall of Fame upon graduation in 2018.
Massimo Vozza
Holland High School
Massimo Vozza is a first-year adviser at Holland High School helping students to plot out and work towards their post-secondary path. Despite graduating with a degree in Computer Science at the University of Michigan, Massimo was dissatisfied with the field of study they ended up pursuing and felt that earlier advising intervention could have empowered them to feel more confident in their post secondary path. Because of this, Massimo aims to help students discover their true passions and programs which fit them best so that they may have a more enriched post-secondary experience. Outside of their role, they enjoy gaming, ranting about the movies they love, and going to the aquarium to try and telepathically communicate with the fish.
CASA U-M Student Leaders
Amy Berduo-Perez
Freshmen | Detroit, MI
Area of Study
Biology, Health, & Society
What is your Outreach Why?
My participation in the center of educational outreach aligns with my goals that involve responsibility, community, engagement, and to instill motivation for the next generations to attend college. I’ve learned that education offers a unique opportunity for personal growth, intellectual development, and skills that profoundly shape one’s future. I believe in giving back to my community and in supporting education which is frequently regarded as a pathway to future prosperity. This is why I discovered that the center of educational outreach has profoundly impacted me and has become a meaningful activity.
Biology, Health, & Society
What is your Outreach Why?
My participation in the center of educational outreach aligns with my goals that involve responsibility, community, engagement, and to instill motivation for the next generations to attend college. I’ve learned that education offers a unique opportunity for personal growth, intellectual development, and skills that profoundly shape one’s future. I believe in giving back to my community and in supporting education which is frequently regarded as a pathway to future prosperity. This is why I discovered that the center of educational outreach has profoundly impacted me and has become a meaningful activity.
Breonna Boyd
Sophomore | Nashville, TN
Area of Study
Business Administration (BBA)
What is your Outreach Why?
Going to college was always really daunting! It scared me to go into higher education and leave home behind. However, I learned that college is whatever you make it out to be and finding a community of individuals you connect with can really strengthen your experience. I hope to be a guide to those who have similar hesitation that I did. Higher education is more than just school, it is about gaining an experience of a life-time, and I hope to spread that to students!
Business Administration (BBA)
What is your Outreach Why?
Going to college was always really daunting! It scared me to go into higher education and leave home behind. However, I learned that college is whatever you make it out to be and finding a community of individuals you connect with can really strengthen your experience. I hope to be a guide to those who have similar hesitation that I did. Higher education is more than just school, it is about gaining an experience of a life-time, and I hope to spread that to students!
Bethany Carter
Sophomore | Redford, MI
Area of Study
Film, Television, and Media major (screenwriting sub-major) with a minor in creative writing
What is your Outreach Why?
My outreach stems from knowing that education is one of the most powerful tools and assets one can have in this world. It is something that cannot be taken away from you and helps you in any field. Due to the fact that I identify as a Black woman in America, there has not always been a time where people that looked like me and identify like me had a chance to get a good education. This is what makes it more important to me that I use my platform wisely. I want to help other students get the higher education of their dreams (if that is part of their dreams) and let them know that it is possible for anyone to achieve no matter your background.
Film, Television, and Media major (screenwriting sub-major) with a minor in creative writing
What is your Outreach Why?
My outreach stems from knowing that education is one of the most powerful tools and assets one can have in this world. It is something that cannot be taken away from you and helps you in any field. Due to the fact that I identify as a Black woman in America, there has not always been a time where people that looked like me and identify like me had a chance to get a good education. This is what makes it more important to me that I use my platform wisely. I want to help other students get the higher education of their dreams (if that is part of their dreams) and let them know that it is possible for anyone to achieve no matter your background.
Maria Fields
Senior | Detroit, MI
Area of Study
Industrial and Operations Engineering, double minor in Computer Science and CASC (Community Action and Social Change)
What is your Outreach Why?
I want to pass it forward. Many people have offered me their time, advice, and thoughts which have been invaluable to my development and success – both personally and academically – and I want to continue to pass the knowledge along. There are moments when I wish I had someone like my future self to help my past self, so I am eager to encourage people in any way that I can. I believe in Nelson Mandela’s words: “As we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.”
Industrial and Operations Engineering, double minor in Computer Science and CASC (Community Action and Social Change)
What is your Outreach Why?
I want to pass it forward. Many people have offered me their time, advice, and thoughts which have been invaluable to my development and success – both personally and academically – and I want to continue to pass the knowledge along. There are moments when I wish I had someone like my future self to help my past self, so I am eager to encourage people in any way that I can. I believe in Nelson Mandela’s words: “As we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.”
Marisa Jordan Galarza
Sophomore | Ann Arbor, MI
Area of Study
Double Major in English and Creative Writing
What is your Outreach Why?
I love learning, and I always have. Oftentimes, school offered me a sanctuary when things were rough with my home life, and it helped me work towards a distant future in which I would be able to build the life I wanted, instead of getting caught up in the tougher times. This, in my opinion, is one of the greatest strengths education offers – it contributes to permanent progress forward, helps develop and hone interests and curiosity, and can be crucial to achieving the life you want to cultivate. I am dedicated to educational outreach because I want to be part of the effort that made the education that saved me as accessible and attainable as possible. I hope to be a resource to all students, and aim to share my experiences as a student, a woman, a Latina, etc. to better guide others into choosing the best path for them.
Double Major in English and Creative Writing
What is your Outreach Why?
I love learning, and I always have. Oftentimes, school offered me a sanctuary when things were rough with my home life, and it helped me work towards a distant future in which I would be able to build the life I wanted, instead of getting caught up in the tougher times. This, in my opinion, is one of the greatest strengths education offers – it contributes to permanent progress forward, helps develop and hone interests and curiosity, and can be crucial to achieving the life you want to cultivate. I am dedicated to educational outreach because I want to be part of the effort that made the education that saved me as accessible and attainable as possible. I hope to be a resource to all students, and aim to share my experiences as a student, a woman, a Latina, etc. to better guide others into choosing the best path for them.
Jeimy Lopez Garcia
Senior | Detroit, MI
Area of Study
Organizational Studies, minor in Education for Empowerment
What is your Outreach Why?
The motivation behind my involvement in educational outreach is the appreciation I have for the organizations that filled a gap in my trajectory to higher education that my advisors and family couldn’t. Furthermore, it is the recognition that the work plays a pivotal role in the nurturing of future generations of leaders in arts, academics, and life.
Organizational Studies, minor in Education for Empowerment
What is your Outreach Why?
The motivation behind my involvement in educational outreach is the appreciation I have for the organizations that filled a gap in my trajectory to higher education that my advisors and family couldn’t. Furthermore, it is the recognition that the work plays a pivotal role in the nurturing of future generations of leaders in arts, academics, and life.
Kailah Hawkins
Sophomore | Detroit, MI
Area of Study
Public health and French minor
Public health and French minor
Robbie Hudzinski
Junior | Taylor, MI
Area of Study
Business Administration/Film, Television, & Media
What is your Outreach Why?
As a first generation college student, post secondary education was a giant question mark for my family and I. As I was applying to colleges, I did not realize how much about the admissions process I was never taught about. So now, I hope to help bridge any gaps of knowledge for high school students while supporting and guiding them in any way possible.
Business Administration/Film, Television, & Media
What is your Outreach Why?
As a first generation college student, post secondary education was a giant question mark for my family and I. As I was applying to colleges, I did not realize how much about the admissions process I was never taught about. So now, I hope to help bridge any gaps of knowledge for high school students while supporting and guiding them in any way possible.
Kamika Kaur
Junior | Livonia, MI
Area of Study
Molecular Cellular and Developmental Biology (MCDB) and Asian Studies Double Major, Art and Design Minor on a Pre-Med Track
What is your Outreach Why?
Outreach is such a powerful tool to encourage and empower students to pursue higher education. Coming from an immigrant household, there were many gaps in my journey to college that I had to work to fill in through external resources. This process was, at times, very draining. Sometimes there was too much information and sometimes simply not enough. I am eternally grateful for everyone who supported me through this process and I want to be able to play such a role in other students’ lives. I want to help ameliorate the barriers that many students face in exploring higher education and alleviate, to some extent, the frustrations associated with the process. This is my “Outreach Why”.
Molecular Cellular and Developmental Biology (MCDB) and Asian Studies Double Major, Art and Design Minor on a Pre-Med Track
What is your Outreach Why?
Outreach is such a powerful tool to encourage and empower students to pursue higher education. Coming from an immigrant household, there were many gaps in my journey to college that I had to work to fill in through external resources. This process was, at times, very draining. Sometimes there was too much information and sometimes simply not enough. I am eternally grateful for everyone who supported me through this process and I want to be able to play such a role in other students’ lives. I want to help ameliorate the barriers that many students face in exploring higher education and alleviate, to some extent, the frustrations associated with the process. This is my “Outreach Why”.
Devin Maples
Junior | Southfield, MI
Area of Study
Materials Science & Engineering
What is your Outreach Why?
I grew up in a household where obtaining higher education was expected of me but was never taught about alternative options or how to finance the experience outside of merit scholarships. I was under the impression that everyone with good grades received a full ride scholarship but that definitely was not my reality. Aside from finances, attending college has allowed me experience personal development that I don’t believe I could have achieved elsewhere. This aspect of college is something I value and believe needs to be spoken about more. If I can share just a fraction of the knowledge I gained through struggles to help others avoid the same problems, my outreach efforts will have been worth it.
Materials Science & Engineering
What is your Outreach Why?
I grew up in a household where obtaining higher education was expected of me but was never taught about alternative options or how to finance the experience outside of merit scholarships. I was under the impression that everyone with good grades received a full ride scholarship but that definitely was not my reality. Aside from finances, attending college has allowed me experience personal development that I don’t believe I could have achieved elsewhere. This aspect of college is something I value and believe needs to be spoken about more. If I can share just a fraction of the knowledge I gained through struggles to help others avoid the same problems, my outreach efforts will have been worth it.
Princess-J’Maria Mboup
Junior | Kalamazoo, MI
Area of Study
Biology: Pre-vet
What is your Outreach Why?
I believe higher education in some capacity is the most important thing a person can attain in their adult life. I think many people don’t understand what is gained from higher education, but more specifically, attending a college or university campus. As my mom told my siblings and I, college is like being an adult with a safety net. I believe that seeing the vision for how impactful attending a college can be is especially difficult for African-American children, especially young boys. My Outreach is primarily to allow young Black Americans to see that college is attainable for them and show them that they can thrive without going straight into the workforce, immediately under the hardships of adulthood or self-sustenance. By highlighting the personal benefits to college more so than the academic or professional benefits (for students who may dislike college because it’s “more school” and can’t even imagine themselves in a career), I’ve witnessed attitudes change towards higher education. I believe that college may not be for everyone, but everyone should believe that it’s an option and worth serious consideration.
Biology: Pre-vet
What is your Outreach Why?
I believe higher education in some capacity is the most important thing a person can attain in their adult life. I think many people don’t understand what is gained from higher education, but more specifically, attending a college or university campus. As my mom told my siblings and I, college is like being an adult with a safety net. I believe that seeing the vision for how impactful attending a college can be is especially difficult for African-American children, especially young boys. My Outreach is primarily to allow young Black Americans to see that college is attainable for them and show them that they can thrive without going straight into the workforce, immediately under the hardships of adulthood or self-sustenance. By highlighting the personal benefits to college more so than the academic or professional benefits (for students who may dislike college because it’s “more school” and can’t even imagine themselves in a career), I’ve witnessed attitudes change towards higher education. I believe that college may not be for everyone, but everyone should believe that it’s an option and worth serious consideration.
Ismael Angel Medina
Junior | Chicago, IL
Area of Study
Computer Science Engineering (CSE)
What is your Outreach Why?
As an out-of-state first-generation minority transfer student, the expectation of myself and many others from my underrepresented community is to strive for anything except for higher education. This was the absolute number one priority since pursuing higher education would lead to a lifetime of crippling college debt. My outreach is particularly to students who are minority low-income transfer students who pursued through their ambitions to go to the top affordable university that they got into. My responsibility is to strive to serve as an influential figure to students who deem that higher education is not possible. If I made it so can you.
Computer Science Engineering (CSE)
What is your Outreach Why?
As an out-of-state first-generation minority transfer student, the expectation of myself and many others from my underrepresented community is to strive for anything except for higher education. This was the absolute number one priority since pursuing higher education would lead to a lifetime of crippling college debt. My outreach is particularly to students who are minority low-income transfer students who pursued through their ambitions to go to the top affordable university that they got into. My responsibility is to strive to serve as an influential figure to students who deem that higher education is not possible. If I made it so can you.
Kasandra Negrete
Sophomore | Lincoln Park, MI
Area of Study
Political Science, Latina/o Studies, and Spanish
Political Science, Latina/o Studies, and Spanish
Peter Parlagreco
Sophomore | Mays Landing, NJ
Area of Study
Business
What is your Outreach Why?
Coming from a lower income minority family, I was lucky that my parents and teachers took an interest in seeing me succeed. They encouraged me to think bigger, to have goals and passions, and to explore more than what’s immediately around me. They empowered in me a sense of self motivation and a belief in self determination that I can achieve that which I set my mind to. I’m passionate about educational outreach because I strive to be someone that my parents and teachers were to me; a role model who genuinely cares.
Business
What is your Outreach Why?
Coming from a lower income minority family, I was lucky that my parents and teachers took an interest in seeing me succeed. They encouraged me to think bigger, to have goals and passions, and to explore more than what’s immediately around me. They empowered in me a sense of self motivation and a belief in self determination that I can achieve that which I set my mind to. I’m passionate about educational outreach because I strive to be someone that my parents and teachers were to me; a role model who genuinely cares.
Karis Rivers
Junior | Detroit, MI
Area of Study
Political Science
What is your Outreach Why?
To me, education is one of the most important tools in our modern society. While there are many flaws in the education system in the US that need to be rectified, my goal is to ensure that students understand the options available to them. Too often, students have no idea how to get to the places they want to be. Educational Outreach is so important to me because we bridge the gap at hand for students of color in low income communities. Giving them the opportunity to understand what education is, why it can be useful and how to think about their future is important because they often don’t get that. I view outreach as trying to help level the playing field for the communities that need it the most.
Political Science
What is your Outreach Why?
To me, education is one of the most important tools in our modern society. While there are many flaws in the education system in the US that need to be rectified, my goal is to ensure that students understand the options available to them. Too often, students have no idea how to get to the places they want to be. Educational Outreach is so important to me because we bridge the gap at hand for students of color in low income communities. Giving them the opportunity to understand what education is, why it can be useful and how to think about their future is important because they often don’t get that. I view outreach as trying to help level the playing field for the communities that need it the most.
Cayla Seay
Junior | Detroit, MI
Area of Study
Psychology and Creative Writing
What is your Outreach Why?
I grew up being introduced to many things; a multitude of instruments, art lessons, dance classes and afterschool programs. My parents encouraged exploration within academic and artistic spaces that helped me to solidify my interests. Though I had these opportunities for exploration when I moved towards application time, I was unaware of the finances and such behind going to university, and even just applying. No one had ever really told me of my options and I remember attending programs similar to this one and finally feeling some relief after hearing about different scholarships, grants, waivers, etc. Having been in a position of lacking important information, I want to make sure that I am a resource for others and help build one’s confidence in their future despite some of the hardships and confusion that can come with it.
Psychology and Creative Writing
What is your Outreach Why?
I grew up being introduced to many things; a multitude of instruments, art lessons, dance classes and afterschool programs. My parents encouraged exploration within academic and artistic spaces that helped me to solidify my interests. Though I had these opportunities for exploration when I moved towards application time, I was unaware of the finances and such behind going to university, and even just applying. No one had ever really told me of my options and I remember attending programs similar to this one and finally feeling some relief after hearing about different scholarships, grants, waivers, etc. Having been in a position of lacking important information, I want to make sure that I am a resource for others and help build one’s confidence in their future despite some of the hardships and confusion that can come with it.
Mikel Vaughan-Coston
Junior | Detroit, MI
Area of Study
Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (EEB)
What is your Outreach Why?
Ambition and guidance are not commodities where I’m from. Understanding that there is an unfair balance of opportunity present in our nation has greatly fueled my desire to ensure that no one goes through the paths and pitfalls of an impoverished mind. Education can greatly assist in helping build one’s ambition, however without the guidance it is easy to learn how to hate learning. I hope to help those who were in similar positions as I was in order to further bring equality. Additionally, I feel responsible and it is only right to give back to the communities that helped to raise me.
Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (EEB)
What is your Outreach Why?
Ambition and guidance are not commodities where I’m from. Understanding that there is an unfair balance of opportunity present in our nation has greatly fueled my desire to ensure that no one goes through the paths and pitfalls of an impoverished mind. Education can greatly assist in helping build one’s ambition, however without the guidance it is easy to learn how to hate learning. I hope to help those who were in similar positions as I was in order to further bring equality. Additionally, I feel responsible and it is only right to give back to the communities that helped to raise me.
Leslie Washington
Junior | Southfield, MI
Area of Study
Business, minors in Real Estate and African American Studies
What is your Outreach Why?
I absolutely love mentoring and giving back to my community. Seeing young people become successful is a wonderful thing and I will help them get there by any means necessary. Whether it’s college or trade school, it is essential that students find the best fit for them. I want to share my experiences with others to help them find their fit and support their dreams and goals.
Business, minors in Real Estate and African American Studies
What is your Outreach Why?
I absolutely love mentoring and giving back to my community. Seeing young people become successful is a wonderful thing and I will help them get there by any means necessary. Whether it’s college or trade school, it is essential that students find the best fit for them. I want to share my experiences with others to help them find their fit and support their dreams and goals.
Julia Wicker
2nd Year Graduate Student | Canton, MI
Area of Study
Social Work
What is your Outreach Why?
I want to help those who wouldn’t normally have the opportunity. I live by this quote “stand or the broken, speak for the silent” – Mike Smith
Social Work
What is your Outreach Why?
I want to help those who wouldn’t normally have the opportunity. I live by this quote “stand or the broken, speak for the silent” – Mike Smith
Natasha Zake
Master’s Graduate | Simi Valley, CA
Area of Study
Master of Arts in Educational Studies Concentration: Educational Equity, Justice, and Social Transformation
What is your Outreach Why?
I grew up in the US Public Education system, but I was unaware of the various tools that I would need to succeed as my parents and I tried to navigate the extensive system. Entering outreach is a way for me to demystify the barriers that higher education institutions tend to wield. I am also able to provide clarity and confidence for those who are navigating familiar paths and lead them to a place where they have the tools to succeed in higher education.
Master of Arts in Educational Studies Concentration: Educational Equity, Justice, and Social Transformation
What is your Outreach Why?
I grew up in the US Public Education system, but I was unaware of the various tools that I would need to succeed as my parents and I tried to navigate the extensive system. Entering outreach is a way for me to demystify the barriers that higher education institutions tend to wield. I am also able to provide clarity and confidence for those who are navigating familiar paths and lead them to a place where they have the tools to succeed in higher education.