2023 Graduate Spotlights (A-E)

Celebrating Drew Scholars Class of 2023!

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*Featured profile includes photo(s) and written spotlight.

Anita Agasaveeran

Astrophysics, Bachelor of Science College of Natural Science

Andrew Barash

Human Biology, Bachelor of Science Health Promotion, Minor College of Natural Science Honors College

Zamaria Battle

Human Biology, Bachelor of Science College of Natural Science

Kaitlin Bennett

Human Capital and Society, Bachelor of Arts Leadership Organization, Minor College of Social Science

Keyana Blake

Neuroscience, Bachelor of Science Pharmacology & Toxicology, Minor College of Natural Science Honors College

David Callaway

Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Bachelor College of Natural Science

Ariana Carson

Human Biology, Bachelor of Science Political Science - Pre-Law, Additional Major College of Natural Science College of Social Science Honors College

Kenya Collins

Human Biology, Bachelor of Science Global Public Health & Epidemiology, Minor College of Natural Science

Mycah Cooper

Human Biology, Bachelor of Science College of Natural Science Detroit, MI

Ryan Copeland

Astrophysics, Bachelor of Science Computational Mathematics, Science, & Engineering, Minor College of Natural Science Honors College

Toriona Day*

Physiology, Bachelor of Science Psychology, Additional Major Peace & Justice Studies, Minor College of Natural Science College of Social Science Honors College Muskegon Heights, MI

About

Toriona came to MSU as a native of Muskegon Heights, MI, and a first-generation college student. Having no family members to turn to made it difficult for her to navigate her college journey.  Being conscious of this aspect of her background, she sought to ease her transition by  using every opportunity and resource available to her. Drew Scholars has been an amazing resource for her in this regard.

Toriona has been fully engaged as a student.  One of her most pivotal experiences is being a member of Big Sister, Little Sister as a mentor to other young women, providing them with guidance and support that empowers, promotes excellence, and drives them forward fearlessly towards their goals.  She has also served as the vice president and community service chair of Aspiring Black Women Doctors.  Her professional experience includes working as a research assistant in the Early Literacy and Language Investigations Lab, summer research intern at the University of Minnesota, an undergraduate learning assistant in MSU’s Department of Chemistry, a Peer Mentor with Drew Scholars, a medical assistant, and a sexual assault crisis intervention advocate.

She aspires to become a Physician Assistant and use her platform to dismantle the disparities that underrepresented communities encounter in healthcare. She wants to be an advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves, and she wants to fulfill this role in the medical field because she believes an individual’s health to be one of the most important pieces of their life. As the world becomes more closely interconnected, it is increasingly important to improve healthcare providers’ abilities to listen and understand those with different experiences than their own. This is especially important in healthcare, where practitioners help people from all walks of life and are also likely to be working alongside team members from various backgrounds.

Toriona is graduating with honor from MSU with a Bachelor of Science in Physiology and Psychology, and  a minor in Peace and Justice Studies from the College of Natural Science, the College of Social Science, and the Honors College.

As she approaches the conclusion of her undergraduate journey at MSU, she stands on the threshold of an exciting new chapter in her life. Her immediate plan following graduation is to embark on having meaningful experiences during her gap year, which will serve as a valuable opportunity for continued personal and professional growth. During this gap year, she aims to explore various avenues that align with her passion for healthcare and service. She intends to engage in experiences that broaden her perspective and deepen her understanding of the medical field. Whether it's shadowing healthcare professionals, participating in research projects, or volunteering in underserved communities, she is eager to expand her knowledge and contribute to others in a meaningful way. Simultaneously, she will be devoting time to continued meticulous preparations for the next point in her academic journey, applying to physician assistant schools. 

Meaning of this Moment

Toriona shares with us what graduating from MSU means to her:

“As a first-generation student, this entire experience holds immeasurable value to me. It represents the culmination of my hard work, determination, and perseverance. Each challenge I faced and overcame, every lesson I learned, and every milestone I achieved has been a testament to the transformative power of education and the unwavering support of my MSU community. 

Reaching this moment signifies more than just a personal accomplishment; it symbolizes the fulfillment of dreams and the pursuit of excellence. It affirms that with dedication, resilience, and a commitment to service, one can transcend barriers and achieve greatness. I am immensely grateful for the opportunities MSU has provided me and the incredible support I have received along the way. 

In essence, my time at MSU has instilled in me the qualities of a scholar and a compassionate individual, shaping me into the person I am today. Reaching this moment signifies not only the end of an educational chapter but also the beginning of a new phase, where I am prepared to make a lasting difference in the lives of others. I am proud to carry the lessons and experiences from MSU as I embark on my future endeavors.”

Significance of Drew Scholars

“The impact of my membership and active participation in the Drew Scholars program throughout my time at MSU cannot be overstated. The Charles Drew Science Scholars program has truly been my home away from home, providing an invaluable support system and shaping my journey as a scholar and as a young woman. 

As a first-generation student, navigating the challenges of university life could have been overwhelming, but the Drew program provided me with a nurturing community that helped me find my footing and excel academically. The Drew program has been instrumental in my personal and academic growth, and I credit much of my success to its profound impact. 

It has not only made me feel at home within the MSU community but has also instilled in me the belief that there are no barriers to what I can achieve. The program's emphasis on cultivating a supportive environment and fostering a sense of belonging has been transformative, allowing me to thrive both academically and personally. 

As I prepare to transition into the next phase of my life, I carry with me the lessons, experiences, and friendships forged through the Drew Scholars program. I am confident that the strong foundation provided by the program will continue to guide and inspire me in all my future endeavors. 

Once a Drew Scholar, always a Drew Scholar.”

To My Peers and Successor

“Embrace your unique journey, avoiding comparisons with others. 

Seek support and build meaningful connections. 

Step out of your comfort zone and embrace new experiences. 

Prioritize self-care and maintain a healthy balance. 

Make the most of resources and opportunities available on campus. 

Set goals, stay focused, and celebrate milestones. 

Embrace failure as a learning opportunity. 

Give back and support others. 

Stay curious and never stop learning. 

Believe in yourself and your abilities.”

Andrew Decker

Physiology, Bachelor of Science Pharmacology & Toxicology, Minor College of Natural Science

Eric Delgado

Physics, Bachelor of Science Political Science - Pre-Law, Additional Major College of Natural Science College of Social Science

Christina Donaldson

Human Biology, Bachelor of Science Women's and Gender Studies, Minor College of Natural Science

Jessica Egleston

Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Bachelor of Science College of Natural Science