What impact do you hope to have on higher education policy?
The impact I hope to leave for students in the higher education policy space is helping other students realize that their voices matter. I want students, especially those from rural, tribal, and underrepresented communities, to know that their experiences and stories are important and that they can create change.
Through this fellowship, I have learned that many students want to be involved but may not always know where to start or have the support and resources they need. I hope to help make those spaces feel more welcoming and show students that they belong in conversations about policies that affect their lives.
I want students to know that they do not have to wait until they have a certain position or title to advocate for change. Their voices, experiences, and communities matter, and they deserve to be heard.
What’s one thing people should know about higher education in Michigan?
Something I wish people knew about pursuing higher education in Michigan is that every student’s path looks different, and many students face barriers that are not always visible. For students from rural communities, tribal communities, or areas with limited resources, accessing higher education can come with additional challenges such as distance, transportation, financial stress, and not always having the same opportunities or support systems as students in larger communities.
I also wish people understood that many students are working hard to balance education with family responsibilities, jobs, and other challenges while still trying to achieve their goals. A student’s success is not always just about their academic ability; it is also influenced by the support, resources, and opportunities available to them.
I believe higher education in Michigan becomes stronger when we recognize and support the different experiences students bring with them. Students should not have to leave their communities or their identities behind to succeed. Instead, higher education should create spaces where students feel supported, represented, and empowered to use their experiences to make a difference.
