Zaria Reeder-Wesley, 2014 MGP Alumna
Status: Senior at Grand Valley State University, studying Hospitality & Tourism Management with a Minor in German
“Midnight Golf helped me grow into the person I am today by learning about my abilities and how to use my strengths to accomplish more. Not only did the Midnight Golf Program (MGP) help me enter into college, but I’ve been able to utilize everything I learned and the resources that I have to excel throughout college. I am the oldest in my family and I will be the first one to graduate from a four-year university.”
“When I got accepted into MGP, that was like my moment of truth letting me know that I was doubting myself too much and that I could accomplish whatever I wanted. My MGP mentors sat down and helped me with everything from financial aid to housing. It was hard transitioning, but they helped make it much easier. I’m truly grateful for how much motivation MGP gave me. I am now completing my senior year with a 3.7 GPA, which is amazing.”
Today, Zara is very involved on campus, which is one of the reasons why she was chosen to be featured in the Laker Effect Ad Campaign for Grand Valley State University this Fall. She will be featured on billboards in both Detroit and Grand Rapids as well as The Rapids bus transportation in Grand Rapids. She is very involved and has embraced the college culture its opportunities.
“Being chosen to be featured in the Laker Effect Ad Campaign is such a privilege and I was completely shocked. I do feel like this is sending a message to everyone back home and even in Grand Rapids, that a young black girl from the West side of Detroit can accomplish so much within three short years.”
Her career goal is to become the owner of an international event planning company.
