By Dr. Janae’ Collier, Associate Director of MRADS
MRADS Alumni Weekend was hosted on January 25th, 2025. This weekend serves as a remarkable celebration of connection, mentorship, and inspiration. Alumni Weekend 2025 brought together current scholars and spectacular alumni, fostering meaningful discussions on research, career paths, and personal growth. Through an inspiring keynote address, two engaging concurrent alumni panels, and interactive breakout sessions, scholars gained invaluable insights into a diverse range of academic and professional journeys.
The weekend began with an insightful keynote address from Dr. Barrett Anderson, who shared his experiences as a student in MRADS (then called UROP In Residence). He described how MRADS shaped his academic and professional journey, between developing a community at U-M and finding his research passion. He also gained valuable mentoring experience in the program. Dr. Anderson served in what is now known as a MRADS Peer Mentor, but was then called Big Buddies. He joked that, even back then, the term “Big buddy” sounded silly! With a mix of jokes and reflection, Dr. Anderson’s words set the tone for a weekend filled with mentorship, reflection, inspiration and motivation.
Following the keynote, scholars had the opportunity to attend one of two concurrent alumni panels. Panel 1 featured Alex Beljanksi, Drake Baglietto, Harsh Jhaveri, La'Joya Orr, Sahil Dagli, and Leah Lambart. This dynamic group discussed their experiences as undergraduate researchers, the transition to graduate studies or industry, and the lasting impact of MRADS on their professional journeys. Panel 2 welcomed Dr. Barrett Anderson, Brenna Budaitis, Eduardo Batista, Jakob Hoellerbauer, and Tori Bonn, who reflected on their careers, the power of mentorship, and how research at MRADS shaped their aspirations. Their stories underscored the value of persistence, curiosity, and collaboration, inspiring scholars to embrace research as a stepping stone to new opportunities.
Scholars also participated in small-group breakout sessions, where they engaged in in-depth conversations with alumni aligned with their fields of interest. These interactive discussions provided direct mentorship, allowing scholars to explore research opportunities, career development, and academic planning in a supportive setting. Our Peer Advisor, Isabella Vitanovich shared,
“Our speaker, Brenna Budaitis shared how boundaries and discipline are extremely important. Her advice was very encouraging and served as a reminder that you are your biggest advocate, both in research and in life.”
For both scholars and alumni, MRADS Alumni Weekend served as a powerful reminder of the strong, supportive community that MRADS fosters. Scholars left the event feeling inspired and empowered, knowing they are part of a network of scholars who continue to uplift and guide one another. Alumni expressed gratitude for the opportunity to give back, share their journeys, and reinforce the importance of mentorship in shaping future leaders. By bridging the past and present, Alumni Weekend strengthens the MRADS legacy, ensuring that scholars not only engage in research exposure and opportunity but also build meaningful, lifelong connections. We look forward to next year’s event and the continued growth of this vibrant community!
If you are ever interested in connecting with our scholars, please complete our Alumni Connection Form. We may reach out to invite you to a class, event, or initiative where your experiences can help inspire the next generation of MRADS scholars.
