Major: Cognitive Science & Psychology
Minor:  User Experience and Design

Hometown: Atlanta

Where did you transfer from? I was previously in the military. While I did not qualify as a transfer student, I met with Michael Hartman three years before attending, along with Phil Larson from Veteran and Military Services. I only had my high school transcript, and I was on a deferment for two years before attending. 

Why did you choose to transfer to the University of Michigan? I decided to go to the University of Michigan because I’ve always wanted to go to college. While I was in the military, I realized online classes weren’t my thing—I just didn’t feel confident about it. This led me to start looking for schools that offered Cognitive Science. UM caught my eye with its awesome interdisciplinary program, and it felt like the perfect place for me. 

Based on your personal experience, what is the one thing you want to tell new transfer students? Imposter syndrome is real, but you do belong here. There are resources and people who want to see you succeed. While it may feel overwhelming at first, connecting with a community of students who have similar transfer experiences or non-traditional backgrounds can help you realize that you are not alone.

How did you make friends and meet other students on campus? I went to a Peer Advisors for Veteran Education game night and met some of my closest friends. Some of my friends were transfer students, and that was how I made my way to the Transfer Student Center.

What is your favorite part about being an LSA transfer student? I appreciate the resources and opportunities that transfer students specifically have access to. I also appreciate the students and staff who host events that give you opportunities to meet other students who did not have a traditional journey to college.

Why did you choose your specific major(s)? I applied here because of the degree program in Cognitive Science. I was interested in how people think and make the decisions that they do. This was important to me because I noticed that active duty service members face a huge stigma when it comes to mental health. I wanted to give back by working with military-connected students and families.