Michael attended Center Line Prep beginning his freshman year and said the most important part of his experience at the school was the network he built and support he received from friends, teachers, school administrators, and members of the community. He mentioned College and Career Intervention Coach Domonique Palmer as someone who motivated him at the school.
He said when he started as a freshman, he wasn’t as motivated and found himself in trouble at times. But as time went on, Michael grew into a leader of his peers.
“I continued to build those connections, and they held me accountable,” Michael said. “Because of those connections, I was able to be more vulnerable about certain things, and I believe that vulnerability helps aid in change. That vulnerability really helped me progress to where I’m academically motivated.”
Michael was active at school and in his community, reinforcing the bonds he built. He volunteered at his church, read to young students, and was a teacher’s assistant. Michael’s voice was familiar to the school, as he sang at various school events such as art galas, commencements, and school board meetings.
While Michael was in the choir for two years, it was an AP Psychology class that inspired him to his future career. When Michael signed up for the course, he didn’t know anything about the subject. After just three weeks in the course, he knew what he wanted to do for the rest of his life.
“That class really opened my eyes,” Michael said. “I really love this subject. And I’ve been kind of indulging throughout my entire life without knowing the title behind it. I love delving into the mind and why we do certain things the way we do and looking deeper into it.”
Michael is taking the next steps toward a career in psychology by traveling to the other side of Michigan. He will be attending Grand Valley State University in the fall, and while he hasn’t decided just yet, Michael is leaning toward a career in clinical psychology. The best part is that Michael will have a debt-free college experience thanks to The Grand Valley Pledge.
Thanks to his time at Center Line Prep, Michael has a network of supporters to help him navigate all of life’s challenges. He shared that several staff members offered their support and connection as he progresses in college and in life.
“It’s great I’ve got those connections,” Michael said. “I know it will remain constant even after I leave this place.”
Congratulations, Michael! Best of luck at GVSU!
About Center Line Preparatory Academy
Center Line Preparatory Academy is a tuition-free, public charter school in Center Line, Michigan, serving students in Young 5s through 12th grade. It is part of the National Heritage Academies (NHA®) network, which includes more than 100 tuition-free, public charter schools serving more than 65,000 students in kindergarten through high school across nine states. For more information, visit nhaschools.com.
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