Marching onto the world stage

Jul 15, 2025

By Ann Marie Aliotta | Photos by Marc-Grégor Campredon

 

Another U‑M commencement is in the books. More than 10,000 graduates from across the university marched to "Pomp and Circumstance," smiled for pictures beneath the big Block M, and turned their tassels from right to left. We caught up with a few of them before they embark on their next big adventure to ask how U‑M impacted their lives and the difference donor support made on their experience here.

 

 

Khadidiatou Toure

College of Literature, Science, and the Arts

 

What is the biggest impact your U‑M experience has had on you?

U‑M shaped my ability to lead with purpose. From serving in Central Student Government leadership to working for D-SIP, the roles that I had the opportunity to work on campus have shaped my problem-solving skills, but also intensified my values of integrity and hard work and gave me the confidence to have more ambitious goals.

How has U‑M prepared you to succeed after college?

The leadership experience that I have gained during these past four years has been beneficial to my growth, both personally and professionally. The opportunities that I have acquired while at the university have pushed me to think critically, navigate complex environments, and take initiative, all of which I plan to carry into future opportunities, whether in a corporate or entrepreneurial setting. 

How did receiving scholarship support influence your college journey, both academically and personally?

Receiving a Wolverine Pathways scholarship allowed me to focus on my studies without financial stress. As a first-generation college student and first-generation immigrant, the scholarship got rid of all of my uncertainties regarding higher education by allowing me to fully commit to my academic and personal growth. It also allowed me to partake in meaningful activities that aligned with my interests, rather than taking on work solely out of financial necessity. Most importantly, it reminded me that others believed in my potential, which was a great motivator that inspired me to work hard and remain dedicated to everything I did.

 

 

Nicole Shumsky

College of Literature, Science, and the Arts 

 

What is the biggest impact your U‑M experience has had on you?

My U‑M experience has impacted me in almost everything I do. The way I interact and process the world is different, with so much more knowledge, understanding, and curiosity for all aspects of life. The people I have met here, the different cultures, and the diversity in thoughts are all something I have been fascinated with during my time here. 

How has U‑M prepared you to succeed after college?

I am planning to pursue graduate school outside of the United States, wherever that may be! The end goal is to hold a Ph.D. in clinical psychology. U‑M has prepared me to take these steps in countless ways: the rigorous and rewarding curriculum, being surrounded by a diverse range of communities, and being able to grow my mind in ways I couldn’t even imagine possible. 

How did receiving scholarship support influence your college journey, both academically and personally?

When I had gotten my acceptance letter, I knew things were going to change for me, my family, my whole future trajectory...but I just knew there was no way I could afford it. Receiving scholarship money, especially from the Kessler Scholars, actually changed my entire life. I was given the greatest thing anyone could be gifted: the power of knowledge. My education from here is priceless, and I would have never been able to accomplish the things I have been able to without the help of scholarship funding toward my education. I genuinely wake up every morning with so much gratitude for what I have been given here. 

 

 

Mauricio Tavares

College of Engineering 

 

What is the biggest impact your U‑M experience has had on you?

The biggest impact Michigan had on me was helping me rediscover what happiness, independence, and purpose could look like after a major life change. I had dreamed of coming to Michigan for years, and I had already been accepted to the program in 2020. But just a month after receiving my acceptance letter, I was involved in a car accident that left me paraplegic. In 2023, with support from the Craig H. Neilsen Foundation Scholarship Program, I was finally able to come to Michigan to pursue my master’s degree and join the Adaptive Sports program. I knew it was going to be a challenge—living far from home, adjusting to a new city, and managing everything on my own—but I wanted that challenge. Michigan gave me more than an education—it helped me move forward with confidence, purpose, and a strong sense of who I am. I gained independence, clarity, and a community that made me feel seen and supported.

How did receiving scholarship support influence your college journey, both academically and personally?

Having someone believe in me and invest in my future motivates me to create similar opportunities for others—especially in Brazil, my home country, where access to education and adaptive programs is often limited.

What advice do you have for first-year students?

Don’t wait to get involved and say “yes” to the things that interest you, even if you’re not sure where they’ll lead. Michigan has so much to offer, but it’s up to you to take the first step. Give yourself time to adjust, find your rhythm, and learn what’s important to you. Surround yourself with people who support you, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it—there are a lot of people here who genuinely care. Most of all, be yourself. Your background, your story, and your perspective matter more than you might think. And while you’re here, make time to enjoy it. And have fun.

 

 

Perla Fares

UM-Dearborn

 

How has U‑M prepared you to succeed after college?

My experiences at UM-Dearborn shaped me into a confident leader, problem-solver, and advocate. I plan to pursue a career that bridges science and engineering. I aspire to integrate engineering into the development of cutting-edge health care solutions, particularly in regenerative engineering, to address unmet clinical needs and transform patient outcomes. UM-Dearborn prepared me by offering research opportunities, which allowed me to co-author peer-reviewed publications and present at national conferences. But beyond academics, it taught me how to lead diverse teams and mentor others with empathy. These experiences solidified my desire to drive innovation in health care. 

How did receiving scholarship support influence your college journey, both academically and personally?

Receiving a scholarship at UM-Dearborn allowed me to focus on my academics, research, and other extracurricular activities without the constant pressure of financial strain. I was able to present at national conferences, complete research fellowships, and even support others as a mentor and TA. Personally, it empowered me to thrive and give back, and I aspire to carry that sense of responsibility and gratitude with me into every space I enter.

Anything else you’d like to share?

As a first-generation, transfer, and international student, my journey wasn’t always easy. There were moments of self-doubt and cultural adjustment. But UM-Dearborn became a place of belonging, discovery, and empowerment. I leave UM-Dearborn not only with a degree, but with a mission: to serve, uplift, and innovate wherever I go.

 

 

Dale Mouton

College of Engineering 

 

How has U‑M prepared you to succeed after college?

Michigan set me up to both know I wanted to complete an advanced degree and possess the academic experience and knowledge to be accepted into the program. Following a second graduation, I would like to pursue a career in the athletic apparel/shoe manufacturing industry. I always had an interest in this field, but the weekly luncheon speakers arranged by the Michigan Materials Society helped me hone in and further foster this desire to pursue a career in industry over academia.

How did receiving scholarship support influence your college journey, both academically and personally?

Receiving scholarship support over the last four years at Michigan has helped greatly, as I was given the financial freedom to focus on my personal, academic, and professional growth. I was able to engage fully in academic and personal extracurriculars, including, but not limited to, sports photography and the University of Michigan Running Club (M-Run).

What advice do you have for incoming first-year students?

I think the most important thing is to put yourself out there. I know it’s cliché, but even if you end up not liking something, you can still say you tried it. I have made so many friends and have so many memorable experiences from trying things, whether or not I continued to do them.