A University Where My Presence Was Felt

Growing up in metro Detroit, I wanted my college experience to give me a change of pace. I didn’t want to get lost in the numbers and wanted to choose a university where my presence would be felt. NMU was exactly what I needed at that time in my life and allowed me the perfect opportunity to take chances and get involved. 

I found a lot of comfort in the simplicity of life in Marquette and wanted to immerse myself into the community around me as much as possible. I was active in the student body and put an emphasis on community building as co-president of the Black Student Union and a member of the Student Leader Fellowship Program (SLFP). I was also able to study abroad twice during my undergraduate program – which was extremely unique.

I wasn’t one who immediately knew exactly what I wanted my life to look like post-graduation. SLFP helped me learn that I am a servant leader and that I lead best when I’m servicing others. It was this importance of serving and volunteering that led me to become a Certified Master Gardener with MSU Extensions. I participate in an array of training, educational opportunities, and gaining hands-on experiences to assist fellow gardeners and garden-enthusiasts with starting and maintaining a healthy garden, promote a better environment and overall lead a healthier lifestyle. 

All these experiences taught me to take charge and be a leader in my community. My college experience would not have shaped me in this way if I had chosen any other school. 

Furthermore, knowing that I wanted to help others brought me to where I am today. I am a real estate agent specializing in listing homes for sale and first-time home buyers. An educator first and foremost, I also work at Amandla Community Development Corporation, a nonprofit housing agency certified by the Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA). As a certified housing counselor, I teach people about home buying and how to qualify for a home loan. I lead official home buyer education classes where, upon completion, attendees can have access to down payment assistance and other benefits. I also assist homeowners who may be experiencing tax or mortgage foreclosure and help them find ways to keep their homes.

My experiences at NMU shaped who I am. I encourage all students to put yourselves out there and get involved. Take a chance on yourself – you won’t be disappointed in where you end up!