The Quad - Fall 2021 by Real Times Media

Open the Door to Your Career

PARTICIPATING COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES THE QUAD – FALL/WINTER 2021 1. DAVENPORT UNIVERSITY davenport.edu 2. EASTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY

emich.edu

3. GRAND VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY

gvsu.edu

4. LAWRENCE TECH UNIVERSITY

ltu.edu

5. OAKLAND UNIVERSITY oakland.edu 6. SCHOOLCRAFT COLLEGE schoolcraft.edu 7. UNIVERSITY OF DETROIT MERCY

udmercy.edu

8. UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN-ANN ARBOR

umich.edu

9. UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN-DEARBORN

umdearborn.edu

10. UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN – FLINT

umflint.edu

11. WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY wayne.edu

WE APPRECIATE OUR COMMUNITY SUPPORTERS

waynecounty.com THANKS TO ALL OF THE PARTICIPATING ADVERTISERS

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Table of Contents FALL/WINTER 2021 The past 16 months have made all of us re-think or reimagine our futures. We have seen changes in many areas of our lives. We have witnessed companies closing, companies retooling or pivoting to maintain their businesses and we have seen changes in our educational institutions. Through it all, we have forged ahead. We are resilient and resourceful. We understand that to be successful, we must be ready. We must be prepared and armed with tools we need to move forward. The Quad provides information to help you explore and make decisions about your career path because we want you to be ready for opportunities that will come. The key to success is yours… Use it to open the door to your career.

Career Planning

Occupational Programs Offered to Fill Vital Needs

The Importance of Mentoring

14 GVSU President Shares Vision 18

Students Can Take Control of Their Social Lives

19 Tips for Choosing a College 20

Don’t Let the Pandemic Change Your College Plans

Thanks to Our Special Sponsors

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS – CREDITS Project Manager – Linda Moragne Graphic Designer – Juan Sifuentes Editor – Coordinator – Amber Tucker Editorial Contributors: Lindsay Keener Sherri Kolade Megan Kirk Amber Tucker

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Megan Kirk Career development starts as early as when a child can form a sentence. The question “What do you want to be when you grow up” has been asked of children for generations. From teachers to princesses, doctors to dinosaurs, children have the entire world laid at their feet when choosing a career. As they age, children begin to see their parent’s work choices and how much of an impact those careers have on personal and professional lives. Career and goal planning for high school and college students is becoming a more focused topic of conversation post-pandemic. As the educational system faced unprecedented challenges during COVID, students have also taken a hit in terms of determining life’s next steps. Celebrating its 45th year in servicing the city’s youth, Detroit Area PreCollege Engineering Program, or DAPCEP, is responsible for exposing roughly 70,000 underrepresented pre-kindergarten (PK) through 12th grade students to careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM.) For college students, specific programs are geared towards their respective university or college. For Wayne State University, the Career Services team helps guide students on their journey. The school Is also encouraging students to stay connected to work and learn alongside each other, including procrastination groups. The university also features the Career Planning and Placement services at the Mike Ilitch School of Business. A platform called Handshake helps connect students with jobs. College is not a path best laid out for all. Some students prefer a career in the skilled trades opposed to traditional careers. Requiring less schooling and less financial obligations, training for a skilled trade could equal big bucks for newcomers. With a median income of $54,000, careers in manufacturing, healthcare, IT, automotive and construction will see a boom in upcoming years.

career planning. There are several high schools across the state that provide skills knowledge as a part of the high school’s curriculum. Randolph Career and Technical Center is the only high school within the Detroit Public Schools Community District that gives students hands-on learning in the field of construction. Taking its first students in 1981, the school provides a look into several aspects of construction and the careers it has to offer. “It was a partnership [between Detroit at Work, DPSCD and IBEW Local 58 Electrical Union] that was created about four years ago with the focus being creating a direct pathway for youth to get accepted into apprenticeship directly out of high school,” says Omar Hasan, employer engagement strategist for Detroit at Work. Career planning will also assist in developing life goals. With so many options, career planning allows space for an area of focus. Careers become a major part of life and choosing the most fulfilling path requires exploration. Detroit at Work helps Detroiters find employment and offers career planning through various training programs. “From Detroit at Work’s perspective, we are here to support students in the pursuits they have. Whether it be post-secondary education or work; once we know what they want to pursue, we’re well positioned to support them,” says Hasan. Virtual learning did cause a gap in the ability to prepare students for careers in various schools. As trade careers are considered manual labor, training for these positions is hands-on and requires real world experience. Now, students are returning to in-person learning, re-establishing a sense of normalcy for many programs across the state. Whether students choose to enroll in a college or university or enter the world of trade, having a plan for future careers will provide direction. Programs are available to assist in guiding students to a life of success.

The booming industry of skilled trades is one of the available paths when

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Assistant Corporation Counsel in Litigation and Municipal Divisions

You want to make a difference? Wayne County wants to hire you. Job openings are available now in the following areas: Clerk Clerical Specialist Laborer Public Health Nutrition Consultant Electrician

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DOM OF MA

1796

TRUST

THE CHA

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OUNTY O F

YNE, MICH I WADEFEND

For more information, go to Waynecounty.com, or download our WC Mobile app. We look forward to hearing from you!

C ERE

Registered Nurse Public Health Nurse Juvenile Detention Specialist Police Officer Public Service Maintenance Worker

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Schoolcraft College’s new Manufacturing & Engineering Center (MEC) is an impressive 48,000-square-foot facility serving students, business, industry and the community at large. It’s the home to the College’s occupational programs, including Biomedical Engineering Technology; computer Aided Design (CAD); Engineering Technology; Electronics; Manufacturing Technology/CNC (Computer Numerical Control): Mechatronics; Metallurgy and Materials Science; Plastic Technology; and Welding. MEC also houses a 3D printing lab and a robotics lab. With many industries seeing an urgent need for skilled workers because of retirements, this is a great time to enroll in a program to gain training to land an in-demand job quickly. “The MEC positions Schoolcraft to be the ‘go-to’ educational institution for the local engineering technology industry,” said Dr. Robert Leadley, Dean of Occupational Programs & Economic Development. The link to engineering technology is especially important as the hands-on nature of the programs allows students to put advanced math and science concepts into reality. It also offers the opportunity to learn a skill that’s portable, transferrable and viable. Mr. Robert McNeal, Production Manager at Adhesive Systems, Inc., a Division of Diversified

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Chemical Technologies, Inc., in Detroit, got a firsthand look at MEC earlier this summer and came away impressed. “Thank you for the opportunity to visit with you at your state-of-the-art facility,” he said. “Both the tour and presentation made for an exciting and informative day. Having seen your operation, I am all the more enthused about the programs you have to offer at your wonderful facility.” Trained and certified individuals in the professional trades are urgently needed, according to data from SEMCOG, the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments. Schoolcraft College offers programs in many of the in-demand fields to help close the local and nationwide skills gap. Predictions of labor force changes 2015 – 2045 include: • 67% increase in population age 65 and over • 29% increase in professional and technical services opportunities • 28% increase in healthcare services jobs Consistent with the College’s vision, Schoolcraft prepares today to meet 21st century challenges by being the provider of choice for a wide variety of opportunities in Southeast Michigan. Robert McNeal, Production Manager at Adhesive Systems, Inc., a Division of Diversified Chemical Technologies, Inc., in Detroit visited the Manufacturing & Engineering Center this summer.

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LEARNING? We’re here for you. Train to quickly land a high-paying, in-demand job.

WINTER REGISTRATION BEGINS OCT. 30, 2021 CLASSES BEGIN JAN. 10, 2022 Take advantage of scholarships, ﬁnancial aid and CARES Act funding

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The Quad • FALL 2O21 7 9/14/21 2:03| PM

Megan Kirk Students across the country are returning to in-person learning after more than a year of learning virtually. For high school and college students, transitioning into a world complete with career, financial and family decisions is not easy. Determining a career path is a life-altering decision and one for which guidance should be provided. Mentoring programs for high school and college youth are on hand to help lay the foundation, provide real-world experience through mentors and give the tools needed to succeed.

school students. Through their Workforce Prep program, students are put on a path to success. Originally, the program catered to students beginning in tenth grade and lasting until one year after high school graduation. However, a shift caused the program to expand its mentorship.

“COVID happened and we realized that during COVID, our alumni students were the ones who really needed that support,” says Bryan Howard, director of programs with Winning Futures. “If you think about it, if you were a college student and it’s COVID, that’s not how you wanted your first year of college to go. We took our Workforce Prep program and turned it into a multi-year program While high school is a time for homecoming, SAT’s where now we work with students up to seven and prom, planning for the future is essential years after tenth grade.” in shifting from adolescence to adulthood. In With the school-based mentoring program this time, high school juniors and seniors are students are able to learn life skills while faced with decisions about plans for college, exploring different career avenues, setting career choices and life beyond their hometowns. and accomplishing goals and preparing for Mentors can provide key insight to an entrance a job through training. Bringing in business into academia. From college applications to professionals, the program also gives students a entrance essays, mentors serve as personal tour chance to see a dream career in action. guides for high schoolers and a life-long allies. “Mentoring is really one of the most important Winning Futures is a local nonprofit nationally things you can do for a young person. Our recognized for their work in empowering high business professional partners have the ability to

feed into the future workforce and give them the skills they will need to be successful, employable adults. You’re basically grooming your future workforce,” says Howard. In 2003, Loyola, an all-boys high school, launched the Loyola Work Experience Program to help create job skills, knowledge and partnerships with other organizations and corporations to provide career mentorship and exposure to a variety of career fields after graduation. Since opening its doors in 1993, the school has attempted to do more than educate; but instill lifelong qualities. “We have what we call our ‘grad at grad,’ which are the characteristics of a grad at graduation. Over the course of four years, we want them to embody some certain traits,” says principal Wyatt Jones. Before becoming the principal, Jones was an admissions director standing on the frontlines of incoming men. Using his stance to provide guidance and leadership, the young men quickly saw Jones as a positive fixture in their lives and followed his example. “The majority of my time here, I was the Dean of Students. I think it was being young, being in their shoes, having the opportunity to talk the lingo that they talk; it really prepared me to propel them and I became the principal,” says Jones. Mentoring for college students, while the same concept, is preparing them for life outside of their educational institution. On the brink of adulthood, these students must learn to prepare and navigate life post-graduation. Entering what is commonly referred to as the real world, college graduates are thrust into a life of choices. By displaying all they can be, mentors give mentees limitless opportunities. “A lot of times students aren’t aware of these careers because they’ve never been exposed to them,” says Howard. Mentoring reaches children and young adults across race, gender and socio-economic status. Those interested in becoming a mentor or looking for a mentor should reach out to local organizations in their area.

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Leaders are destined for greatness. At Eastern Michigan University, our faculty and staff are ready to empower students to take their career paths to new dimensions they didn’t know existed. From health and human services to engineering, we’ve always focused on helping students reach their full potential. In addition to being a premiere learning and research institution, EMU offers a wide range of organizations where students can feel connected and motivated to continue—and excel—in their academic journey. In addition to a distinct mix of academics and community involvement, EMU prides itself on being one of the most diverse public universities in Michigan where students can beneﬁt from a global classroom experience so they can learn, grow and thrive in today’s workforce. In fact, 44%of the students in Eastern’s 2021 incoming class represent diverse communities. At EMU, you can choose from more than 200 undergraduate majors, minors and certiﬁcates, plus more than 150 graduate programs offered to more than 16,000 students. Here’s one more thing. Eastern Michigan graduates get jobs. Period. Some of the biggest name employers in Michigan and around the country share something in common: EMU graduates. So, what are you waiting for? Stay true to your academic goals and discover life’s possibilities at Eastern Michigan University. To learn more, visit emich.edu.

OUR GRADS LAND MORE JOBS. THAT’S TRUE. EMU. Named a “Best in the Midwest” University for 18 consecutive years. Text your grad year to 467-467 and receive your personalized scholarship estimate.

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Lindsay Keener Something like a baby bird, newly hatched and on its way to conquer the world, I’ve been grappling with what it means to spread my wings before I’ve ever found my footing. The coronavirus pandemic took away any sense of security I might’ve felt upon graduating from my historically Black university last year. What was meant to be a time of celebration, quickly turned into one of confusion that left me feeling cheated. While I pride myself on being someone who can see the bright side of things, in what others might call the darkest of times, my confusion on what to expect from life post-graduation was deafening. In many ways, looking for direction meant embracing the fresh start I’d been given. Entering the real world was never guaranteed to be an easy feat, but it was a chance to create a foundation worth standing on. I knew starting fresh would require discipline. It would require me to step outside myself and perform in ways I never had. The first few steps were simple trust in the knowledge I’d gained, have faith in my skills, and present myself to future employers. I’m not exactly sure what compelled me to lay it all on the table and flood the market with resumes and cover letters. On occasion, I think it might’ve been the silence and uncertainty brought on by the pandemic. If there was nowhere to go and no direction to follow, the possibilities of what my future could hold were limitless - it was all about perspective. Confidence quickly replaced my fear of failure. With each email confirmation that I was a good candidate for positions I wanted, I began wondering why doubt was ever a present fixture in my life. Working in spite of my fear took effort, but it was faith that carried me through. I had to trust that everything would come together whether I had a say in it or not. Now, I’m not only standing in my newfound confidence - I’m soaring.

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T I H S I S

Y O U R

M O M E N T

5boosting th in nation for graduates’

Find your true path at Lawrence Tech

earning potential

and become a

84%

leader who inspires,

of students employed or registered for graduate school at commencement

innovates, and solves the challenges of today, while building

11:1 student/ faculty ratio

a better future.

30 + men’s and women’s sports teams

ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN ARTS AND SCIENCES BUSINESS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

admissions@ltu.edu

ENGINEERING

Southfield, Michigan | BLUE DEVILS DARE!

Innovative programs

Lawrence Technological University is a private, nearly 3,000-student university that offers about 100 innovative programs in Colleges of Architecture and Design, Arts and Sciences, Business and Information Technology, and Engineering.

Highly-ranked university

Small classes, taught by professors with industry know-how, and an exceptional focus on theory and practice, contribute to Lawrence Tech’s ranking among the nation’s best universities by U.S. News & World Report and the Princeton Review. Your hands-on education in programs such as business, design, engineering, or nursing begins on day one.

Outstanding earning potential

The Brookings Institution ranks Lawrence Tech fifth among U.S. colleges and universities in preparing graduates for well-paying occupations. Also, Payscale. com reports alumni salaries are in the top 11 percent nationally, and some 84 percent of students are employed or grad school bound by graduation, above the national average.

New and expanded sports teams

Co-ops, internships

LTU’s unique Southfield location provides opportunities for co-ops, internships, and professional development in a region with one of the largest concentrations of engineering, architecture, and technology jobs in the world.

Financial aid and more

About 74 percent of students receive financial assistance. For more info, contact Lawrence Tech also features 30 men’s and women’s athletic teams, including Lawrence Tech’s Office of Admissions at 800.225.5588 or admissions@ltu.edu. basketball, soccer, women’s softball, and men’s football; LTU has also added new Ready to apply now? Go to ltu.edu/applyfree. teams such as women’s hockey and competitive cheer, and expanded team rosters in sports such as track and field, and women’s bowling.

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The Quad • FALL 2O21 | 11

They dig deep to enforce change and define destinies. Leaders push beyond what’s possible to find what’s best. They transform the world — and themselves. Unlock your inner leader at Oakland University, and revolutionize your future. Become a #FutureGrizzly and pursue excellence with 140 undergraduate degree programs that push you to think beyond four walls. To get out and experience it for yourself. To find the answers in the lab, the field, the stage and the community. As an OU student, you’ll enjoy: • Advising throughout each year • Tutoring, study groups and supplemental instruction • Full-service writing center • Study abroad opportunities • Research projects as early as freshmen year

You’ll find your professors become your mentors, and they’ll help you make important connections between theory and practice. They stand firm on years of academic excellence — they are published authors, noted researchers, experts in their fields — and use their knowledge to cultivate and challenge yours.

Get to Know Us There is no better way to get a feel for your future college than by visiting campus. Right now, you can visit OU in-person and virtually. Just go to oakland.edu/visit to view everything that’s been tailored just for you.

Let’s Go Let’s get back to pursuing dreams and pushing for our highest achievement. At OU, we continue to offer accredited, valuable degree programs with no-fee tuition pricing and special scholarships. And our faculty continue to offer the same personalized instruction and tremendous support students have come to expect from OU. Other areas of university life have been adjusted for your health, safety and support. See for yourself why it’s the best time to invest in your education at oakland.edu/support/futurestudents.

• 24/7 library

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awards full undergraduate tuition (renewable for four years) to qualified students from counties where the university has a physical presence: Kent, Ottawa, Muskegon, Grand Traverse, Calhoun and Wayne. Visit gvsu.edu/gvpledge to learn more. “In presenting the Grand Valley Pledge, the university is committing to full scholarships for students from households that make $50,000 or less,” Truss said. “The Middle School Pathway initiative also opens doors. GVSU is here to build trust and connect with students, parents, and community.” Detroit entrepreneur William “Bill” Pickard welcomed Grand Valley State University supporters, staff members and alumni to the GVSU Detroit Center in mid-August to discuss the development of a university ambassadors program in southeast Michigan. Pickard is a former member of the Grand Valley Board of Trustees; he is a co-managing partner of the MGM Grand Detroit Casino, among other businesses.

GVSU offers certification programs, allowing adult learners to get the credentials they need, when they need it. Certifications can be accompanied with a traditional degree program, or stand alone. Visit gvsu.edu/next to learn more. Pickard was not a graduate of Grand Valley but said the university provided him with many other opportunities.

“The GVSU strategic plan is simple. GVSU will personalize education. We are all different people. We have different backgrounds, challenges, preparation habits, and goals. GVSU will honor these differences in all students,” said GVSU’s President Philomena V. Mantella. GVSU is a resource for lifelong learning. GVSU is creating the educational home where children, parents, friends, and family will all have the opportunity to expand their knowledge base. “GVSU is committed to equitable education. GVSU will break barriers leaving no people behind and connecting them to access. The model of higher education can be exclusionary. GVSU is changing this now and forever, inclusion is paramount,” said Mantella.

President Philomena V. Mantella and Vice President for Enrollment Development B. Donta Truss spoke about what’s next for GVSU and southeast Michigan. “The GVSU strategic plan is simple,” Mantella said. “GVSU will personalize education. We are all different people. We have different backgrounds, challenges, preparation habits and goals. GVSU will honor these differences in all students.” GVSU is a resource for lifelong learning; campus leaders have created an educational home where diverse learners will have opportunities to expand their knowledge base. “GVSU is committed to equitable education. We will break barriers, leaving no people behind and connecting them to access. The model of higher education can be exclusionary. We are changing this now and forever, inclusion is paramount,” said Mantella.

Vice President for Enrollment Development and Educational Outreach B. Donta Truss works with students to expand the GVSU footprint and educational experience in southeast Michigan.

Truss discussed the Grand Valley Pledge, which

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WHATEVER IS

NEXT For Grand Valley students, next is opportunity and innovation. Next is global, connecting and uniting us. It’s local, shaping the spaces in which we work and live. It’s a commitment to progress. Next is where minds are free to imagine what could be. At GVSU, next is now. And whatever’s next for you, we will help you get there.

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U-M campus profiles Ann Arbor U-M’s Ann Arbor campus has 19 schools and colleges offering 280 degree programs. It is ranked the #1 public university in the U.S. by QS World Rankings and the #1 best value public school in Michigan by The Princeton Review. More than 31,000 undergraduate students are enrolled on this campus. The University of Michigan has extended the Go Blue Guarantee — its landmark promise of four years of free tuition for qualifying Michigan residents — to all three of its campuses in Ann Arbor, Dearborn and Flint. Full-time, high-achieving in-state undergraduate students attending U-M will automatically qualify for the award if they have a family income of $65,000 or less and assets less than $50,000.

qualified Michigan residents who apply to U-M, get admitted and apply for financial aid. The Dearborn and Flint campuses have additional GPA requirements. In addition, all three campuses will continue to provide significant financial aid for students who do not qualify for the Go Blue Guarantee based on individual need and merit.

The Go Blue Guarantee first launched on “Our budget supports the families of our state U-M’s Ann Arbor campus in 2018. Nearly and the academic excellence of our students one in five undergraduates on that campus by promising that outstanding students are from a family with an income less than who work hard in their studies will be able to $65,000. More than 70 percent of in-state afford a Michigan education — on all three of undergraduates in Ann Arbor receive aid and our campuses,” President Mark Schlissel said. 27 percent pay no tuition at all. Students do not have to apply specifically for the Go Blue Guarantee. It is awarded to

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Learn more: goblueguarantee.umich.edu

Dearborn UM-Dearborn is home to four colleges offering nearly 100 majors. It is consistently named one of the best regional universities in the midwest and was named a “best college for veterans” by U.S. News & World Report. There are more than 6,900 undergraduate students pursuing degrees at UM-Dearborn. Flint Close to 5,000 undergraduate students attend this U-M campus in the heart of downtown Flint. It has six schools and colleges offering more than 100 degree programs. UM-Flint was named a Best Midwestern University by the Princeton Review and a Gold Level: Veteran-Friendly campus by Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency.

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ANN ARBOR | DEARBORN | FLINT

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Sherri Kolade For many high school and college students, the COVID-19 pandemic is a never-ending nightmare. However, because socializing (and schooling) doesn’t stop, these studious learners still have to show up every day personally and academically -all while making the grade. University of Michigan School of Public Health reported in an article, A Teenager’s Guide to Coping with the Pandemic, that socializing has been complicated, according to developmental psychologist Alison Miller who shared her thoughts. “You’re at a time of life when you’re supposed to focus on building social connections with your peers and learn how to do some things separately from your family,” Miller was quoted in the article. “The pandemic and virtual school have made it harder for you to interact with your peers... This can take a toll emotionally on the whole family, including all the young people in your family.” Miller said even with varying social distance changes taking place it can be hard to stay on top of being social during these trying times. Miller said that using social media has helped people to stay connected even more during the pandemic – balance is the key, however, because too much time spent on social media can have negative effects on young people in particular. “It is normal to feel sad, stressed, confused, scared or angry during any crisis. Remind yourself it is okay to feel those feelings and find healthy ways of managing those feelings, including talking to people you trust,” she said. In terms of feeling more connectedness in the age of COVID-19, a searchable directory

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is helpful for parents, guardians (and possibly even older teens) to see how they could stay social with local fall activities that help young people explore interests, and build social-emotional skills and peer relationships. Discover Your Spark features engaging and educational activities and programs for young people including high school-age students. New programs are added regularly and include indoor and outdoor in-person and virtual programming options from across Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties. Activities like sports, arts, science, math and more are offered. Parents can search Discover Your Spark by specific criteria, such as grade, cost, zip code and focus, to find programs that meet their child’s interests and the family’s schedule. “Providers have worked hard to adjust to changing needs and are offering programming options that are in line with the interests of parents and kids. There is more need for children and youth to reconnect and restore their mental health and social connections. Arts, sports, STEM and other youth development activities give youth the outlets they need to learn and grow their skills for success,” said Sara Plachta Elliott, Ph.D., executive director for the Youth Development Resource Center, which manages Discover Your Spark. “Discover Your Spark helps make sure they are better equipped to enter the new school year ready to learn,” said Tonya Adair, chief people, equity and engagement officer for United Way for Southeastern Michigan. “At a time when many families have experienced a shift in how children learn, it’s even more important that they can easily find resources near where they live. We are committed to helping children continue to learn and grow.” Because of systemic inequities in education, Black and Brown children are even more

likely to need equitably expanded access to literacy and learning supports such as quality Fall and afterschool programs. For more information, visit www.detroitydrc.org. The University of Michigan Counseling and Psychological Services reports that for college students specifically, you need to remember the importance of staying social to keep up with mental health challenges. This includes: • Knowing that it is okay to feel how you are feeling during this time • Maintaining a routine while college is in session; also try something new like a new recipe (if you live in apartments and have access to a stove) or a new workout regimen • Practicing good sleep hygiene. • Connecting with others safely while practicing social distancing and good hygiene • Taking a break and taking time for yourself each day. Dr. Kristyn Gregory, DO, director of behavioral health, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, said that being social has long-term effects on young people’s psychological development, and being social starts with mindfulness. “Mindfulness is a mental practice that helps people focus on the present moment instead of the past or the future. Mindfulness also can benefit [young people’s] attention span, overall mental health and resilience to stress,” Gregory said. “Different breathing techniques, meditations or even phone apps can help with ways to incorporate mindfulness as a solution to combatting the day’s stresses.” More information can be found at ahealthiermichigan. org.

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Tip 1: Never lose sight of deadlines Even with the extension some schools have provided, there may be additional deadlines you won’t want to forget. Deadlines for scholarships, financial aid, housing and athletics shouldn’t be missed or you could miss out on important opportunities.

Tip 2: Choose the experience that fits your lifestyle Every college offers a different experience and it’s important to be aware of these differences before making a choice about which college to attend. Make sure the college you select provides a comfortable learning environment. Things to consider include class size, availability of online courses, student advisors and support services.

Tip 3: Figure out how much financial support you will receive Don’t write off any college before making sure you understand the financial resources they provide. At first glance, tuition rates can look scary. However, these rates can be misleading without considering the amount of financial aid and scholarships a school offers.

Tip 4: The school’s location needs to be right for you The decision to be close or far away from home is a very personal one. You may have always wanted to get away as a college student and be completely independent. Or you may have envisioned your family as a big part of your college experience. This choice requires a lot of self- reflection.

Tip 5: Make sure it’s YOUR decision To help make this decision, you should visit (or complete a virtual tour) to explore each school and try to envision yourself going there. You can also talk to alumni of the school you’re interested in to find out what they liked most about their experience. Just remember – while taking other people’s advice into account, the school you feel most comfortable with should be your top priority.

Much more than business, technology, health and urban education. You might have heard that Davenport University offers more than 60 high-demand degrees, and that 91% of our graduates are employed within six months of graduation. But that’s not the only reason we stand out. Our small, safe campus features apartment-style residence halls with private rooms. We also have more than 36 athletic teams, including 21 NCAA Division II teams, plus all kinds of clubs and activities. With 95% of our students receiving financial assistance, and an average student/teacher ratio of 12:1, our students get the personal attention and resources they need to succeed.

Get where the world is going

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By Ashley Johnson Many students may be wondering about the next step in their education given the uncertainty of the past year. High school seniors have had to do many things differently this year: School was online; homecoming was virtual; many proms were held outdoors. Even graduation looked a little different. But the Class of 2021 overcame this unprecedented adversity. And now they’re on their way to what’s next: Education beyond high school. Although campuses are still grappling with plans to bring students back on campus, students should know that college is still an option. Students with some training after high school— whether that’s a year of training for a professional certificate or four years of college—earn more, learn more, and tend to be more civically involved, healthier, and live longer. College isn’t just another couple of years of school. It is the difference between thriving and simply surviving in life. College is the difference between living check-to-check and barely making ends meet versus thriving in a career field that aligns with your passions and the financial means to save for the future. For students in Detroit, free college is still an option. The ability to pursue a more stable future is within reach. Since 2013, the Detroit Promise has offered a tuition-free pathway to a college degree to more than 4,800 students. This opportunity is also available for the Class of 2021 and 2022. The Detroit Promise offers last-dollar scholarship funding for residents of Detroit to attend twoyear colleges and four-year universities. To be eligible for the two-year college pathway students must live in and attend high school in Detroit for two years, graduate high school and complete the FAFSA. To be eligible for the four-year college scholarship students must live in and attend high school in Detroit for four years, have at least a 3.0 GPA, graduate high school, apply and get accepted to an eligible four-year college and complete the FAFSA. The Detroit Promise funding is not competitive; every student who registers and meets the requirements will receive funding. If you think the Promise is too good to be true, think again. All you must do is register during your senior year, apply and get accepted

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to an eligible college and sign the Promise commitment form to indicate which college to send your scholarship funding. But the support doesn’t end there: Many colleges participating in the Promise program have dedicated support teams on campus ready to make sure the transition to college is successful. They’ll be there to support you, help you put together your schedule of classes, cheer you on and help you overcome some of the common barriers that you might face.

remains passionate in the pursuit of ensuring every student has an opportunity to achieve a postsecondary degree regardless of their financial situation.

Each student utilizing the two-year Detroit Promise scholarship will be assigned a Campus Coach through the Detroit Promise Path program. Campus Coaches connect students with on-campus student resources, support their educational journey and personal growth and assist with educational goal achievements. In addition to the benefit of having a dedicated, knowledgeable coach, each scholar participating in the Detroit Promise Path will receive a monthly stipend of $50 and be connected to a community of Detroit Promise scholars. The COVID-19 pandemic and the way it has upended society might dissuade some from pursuing higher education, but don’t be fooled. Do not miss out on a free pathway to a college degree! Entering and completing college isn’t easy, but it’s even more challenging for first-generation students and students of color. There are worthy programs out there designed specifically to help students financially, socially, and academically to ensure they thrive and complete their degree. Detroit Promise is one such program, and I encourage any Detroit student to pursue this free pathway to a college degree. Learn more at detroitpromise. com/how-to-register/. Ashley Johnson is a program officer at The Kresge Foundation supporting the work of the Education Program. Prior to joining the foundation, she served as the Executive Director of the Detroit Promise program and

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COLLEGE

CITY

LIFE

Experience it all at

WAYNE STATE At Wayne State University, living and learning in the city of Detroit excites every passion, every purpose and every goal. After all, it’s at the center of opportunity and the heart of change and innovation. See for yourself. Sign up for our Undergraduate Open House on Oct. 9 or our Graduate Open House on Oct. 13. Get started today. Schedule a tour and take a look at our incredible apartments and residence halls. You’ll discover how just one look at our campus can turn anyone into a Warrior for life.

wayne.edu/admissions

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Great Tips to Help You Along Your Educational Journey Linda Moragne COMMUNICATION IS KEY IN ALL PROFESSIONS. In any profession, one must be able to communicate. How we communicate is sometimes optional. However, the most important tool is to be able to listen and respond. It is how we take in information (learn) and process that which we learn (use it or execute) that will make something or someone better. Many times, opportunities are missed because information was not communicated or shared. Whether we speak or write to communicate our message, we must be intentional, concise and grammatically correct in our delivery. Don’t let fear of speaking in public deter you from applying for positions that might be great for you. Instead, practice on your own in front of a mirror, by recording yourself or stepping out of your comfort zone to volunteer to speak at your church, family reunion or community event to help develop your skills and become better and better. You have heard practice makes perfect. Well, no one is perfect, but you can get better. We believe students must know how to communicate with everyone with whom they come in contact. Personal and professional communication requires us to be able to get our information and thoughts across. You will have to communicate with professors or graduate assistants in some instances. You will communicate with students who might not be from your city, state or country. Learning to communicate is important. Read. Listen. Write. Share. Ask questions. Be respectful. Be open-minded. BE PRESENT: I listened as a guest at a scholarship luncheon when a professor told the students to “be present.” She explained that she was more receptive and more understanding if a student showed up to class and asked questions. When it was time to grade the students, more consideration was given to those who came to class more so than to those who did not show up to class at all or arrived late. She said this suggested they were not serious about the class or were not properly using their time and money paid for the course. Even if you don’t understand, show up. Let the instructor see that you put forth the effort to come to class to learn, even if you don’t quite grasp what is being taught. If you ask questions or acknowledge that you don’t understand and need more review or tutoring, you will benefit in most cases. Professors want to know that you are serious about learning. Be present. Show interest. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF WORK OFFERS OR OPPORTUNITIES WORK-STUDY OFFERS: Not every student has a ‘paid’ educational experience. You might not have a full ride/paid scholarship to attend college. Your family may not be able to pay for your education. But, you have access to financial aid. Financial aid can include work-study opportunities. Each school is different. You are allowed to work a set number of hours to earn a portion of the finances needed to pay for your education. I worked while I was in college and gained so much experience and made so many contacts. SUMMER INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES: If you are not taking classes during the summer, inquire about internship opportunities. You can gain experience and sometimes you can be paid while working. Not all internships pay students. The benefit is that you learn more and gain experience. You can add this to your resume so, when you graduate you will be able to show you have acquired experience and contacts.

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2020 Milestones • Announcement of the McNichols Campus Renovation Project, which begins soon with renovations and expansion of the Student Union and others.

Detroit Mercy is ranked among the top 200 national universities by U.S. News & World Report, achieving a # 187 rank in the national universities category of the “Best Colleges” 2021 edition. This is the second year in a row that Detroit Mercy has ranked high in this category and the university is one of only three in Michigan to earn a place in this year’s group. Detroit Mercy also received the following ranks: • Best Value Schools, National Universities - #34 • Best School for Veterans, National Universities - #136 • Top Performers on Social Mobility - #129 • A+ Schools for B Students

• Transition to virtual learning in March, when faculty, staff and the administration worked to ensure a safe and healthy environment for students returning to classes this year. This includes creation of Titans Together, an initiative to provide guidance, plans and encourage the solidarity of the University community as University engages in operations in new ways. Teaching and learning are provided through a flexible hybrid model of instruction that prioritizes the health and safety of students and faculty.

o Master’s Entry Advanced Generalist in Nursing (MEAGN). • The University’s TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) program received a grant renewal in September of $261,000 from the U.S. Dept. of Education to provide underrepresented students with academic support and personal development programming to increase persistence and degree completion, among others (https://www.udmercy.edu/current- students/support-services/trio.php). • In December 2019, the University finished a fundraising campaign, raising $115 million. As a result, the endowment increased from $25 million to more than $70 million. Coupled with a 2017 tuition reset in 2017 that lowered undergraduate tuition from $41,000 to $28,000 and a graduate tuition reset in 2019, Detroit Mercy’s nationally ranked education is even more affordable.

• Implementation of new programs. o Six-Year Accelerated Law Scholars Program in Biology, Business Administration, Chemistry, Economics, English, Political Science and Mathematics o Post-bachelor’s certificate in Health Information Management and Technology for undergraduates

Producing real results and career-long earnings Did you know that 96% of our graduates are professionally employed immediately after graduation and go on to lead highly successful careers and lives? And in recent years, a study by Georgetown University ranked Detroit Mercy among the top 15% of universities in the U.S. for career-long earnings.

Learn how you can start building your future virtually and in person by calling 313-993-1245 or visit udmercy.edu/admission. 4001 W. McNichols Road • Detroit, MI 48221-3038 • 313-993-1245 • udmercy.edu • admissions@udmercy.edu

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