Senior Spotlight: Alyssa

In honor to commemorate our seniors leaving our lovely admissions team, we are highlighting their experiences at Eastern!

Alyssa - Class of '21

Welcome to Alyssa’s feature in our "Senior Spotlight" series. Alyssa is from Holland, MI. She majored in Special Education: K-12 Communication Sciences and Disorders with Elementary Endorsement. She was an amazing addition to our Admission Office, and we are so excited to share her story of being here at Eastern Michigan University!

What was it like when you were choosing colleges?

I remember being very overwhelmed by all the options. I visited many schools to narrow down where I wanted to apply. I prioritize my program, scholarship opportunities, and the campus community as my deciding factors.

Why did you choose EMU?

It was clear from the start that I was more than a number at EMU. I was able to meet with faculty before committing, and they asked me what my goals were while I was at college rather than telling me what I had to do. I felt valued as an individual here and knew I would be able to accomplish what I wanted with these resources.

What were your experiences with clubs/involvement here at EMU?

I served on the E-Board of Planned Parenthood Next Generation starting my freshman year and remained in that organization all four years. It was a great resource for me to network and work within my new community. I also frequently attended events held by other organizations, such as Halloween parties or cultural nights. Every club was so welcoming to new members and allowed me to befriend the people I was seeing in my classes.

What were your academic experiences here at EMU?

One of the highlights of my college experience was my Study Abroad trip to Montenegro. I was able to teach English to 4th graders for two weeks during my trip. I had never traveled abroad before. It helped me grow academically and grow in my self-confidence as well as I navigated travel and led a classroom. When I applied to graduate programs, this trip helped me stand out on applications.

What was your experience with life on campus/Ypsi?

I am very community-focused, and it was one of my deciding factors when choosing a university. Ypsilanti embraces its college students with events and discount programs at local businesses. There's plenty of local restaurants and small shops within walking distance of campus, and the bus stations on campus make it easy to get to neighboring cities as well. One of my favorite events is First Fridays, where during the warmer seasons the businesses throw art-centered block parties and events for the first Friday of the month. In September, it's centered around bees, including local honey vendors and drag queen bees.

What is/are your favorite memories that you've made here?

People always say, "you meet your lifelong friends in college," which I'll admit I wrote off as cheesy when I first came to school. However, interacting with peers from diverse backgrounds with unique life experiences has been one of the most exciting parts of college for me. I was able to create close friendships that began my freshman year and I know will continue long past graduation. They supported me during tough courses, long study sessions, and were always down for late-night ice cream trips.

Any advice you could give to future students?

Get involved when given the opportunity, whether that means research, an organization, or a sports team. While where you go has a huge impact, you ultimately shape your university experience and the times I took a chance led to my favorite memories.