MREACH
PREPARING TOMORROW’S BUSINESS LEADERS
Michigan Ross Enriching Academics in Collaboration with High Schools (MREACH), a program of the Academic Success Center at the University of Michigan Ross School of Business, is dedicated to enriching the academic and career aspirations of high school students from diverse backgrounds. Through immersive, actionbased learning experiences, MREACH provides valuable insights into the college application process, financial aid, and academic preparation, empowering students to explore the benefits of a Ross BBA and supporting their future success
ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE YEAR
Recently, MREACH has achieved several notable successes that have significantly enhanced the experiences of participating high school students. One standout accomplishment was the financial literacy workshop hosted in collaboration with the University of Michigan Credit Union, which provided students with practical knowledge and skills crucial for managing their personal finances. This workshop was complemented by a "meet the clubs" event organized along with the BBA DEI committee During this event, high school students explored various student clubs, networked with current undergraduate students, and completed a joint service project, which not only engaged students in meaningful community service but also fostered a sense of camaraderie and collaboration
Additionally, students enjoyed enriching campus experiences, including a lunch at South Quad to immerse themselves in campus life and a finance-focused session in the Tozzi Electronic Business and Finance Center The program also facilitated a U-M alumni panel, offering students valuable insights and networking opportunities with successful graduates A business ethics discussion led by Professor Will Thomas provided a deep dive into ethical considerations in the business world, further enriching the students' understanding
The year concluded with an outing to a Pistons basketball game, blending educational experiences with extracurricular activities. These initiatives collectively contributed to a well-rounded and impactful program, enhancing both academic and personal growth for the high school participants
STUDENT PERSPECTIVE
2023–2024
IMPACT BY THE NUMBERS
35 students enrolled in donor-funded SAT prep
Achieved a 38-point increase in the average composite score on the Kaplan practice exam
Recorded a 39-point increase in the reading score on the Kaplan practice exam
14 high school seniors admitted to Ross for the 2024-2025 academic year
11 incoming BBAs for fall 2024
Participating in the MREACH program at Michigan Ross was a transformative experience for me. I made close friends from all over Michigan, and developed valuable connections with business professionals both at Ross and at large-scale firms. The program provided me with essential soft skills and the unique opportunity to present my ideas to top consulting firms. The mentors I met felt like older siblings, always ready to guide me, day or night. Under the guidance of Tulsa, the MREACH program fundamentally changed how I view making friendships and interacting with new individuals, leaving a lasting impact on my personal and professional development.
THINKING AHEAD
VISION FOR THE UPCOMING YEAR
For the upcoming fiscal year, MREACH aims to increase participation among students from the Detroit area, engage more faculty, and integrate more lectures throughout the curriculum. The program is also exploring opportunities for company visits and guest speakers to enrich the student learning experiences.
To support these goals, MREACH's funding priorities include general programming funds for transportation and food, continued SAT preparation through Kaplan, and financial assistance for off-campus professional development activities Donor contributions will be utilized to provide transportation for Detroit/Southfield area students, cover food and other programming expenses, and sponsor professional development activities, such as company visits and shortterm shadowing opportunities
DONOR IMPACT
With generous support from funds like the Sharon and Howard Epstein College Preparation Fund, high school students are provided with additional resources and guidance to excel on college preparation exams, pursue their college dreams, and explore a business career. This support includes access to practice tests, the online Kaplan portal, staff support and advice, and test book resources,
STAFF PERSPECTIVE
The MREACH program is a unique opportunity for high school students in Michigan to both learn foundational business concepts and prepare for their college application season. Many MREACH participants join the program in their sophomore year of high school and continue through graduation, so they are able to develop soft skills and enter young adulthood with an extensive professional network One of the most special parts of the program is that the business immersion courses are created and taught by current U-M undergraduate students, many of whom are MREACH alumni excited to give back to the community.
TulsaFearing MREACHprogrammanager
Program Criteria
10th- and 11th-grade students with a GPA of 3.0 or higher
12th-grade students may apply, but will be placed on a waitlist
Students with minoritized identities interested in studying business in college, including first-generation college-bound students and students from lower socioeconomic standing (though students from all backgrounds are welcome)
Students with a demonstrated strong academic background and high academic potential are welcome