I’m excited to share my Laker story with you this year! It is another busy fall filled with new classes and internships, and I can’t wait to tell you all about it.

For Aliah, Spencer, and I, our college experiences have all been unique. We’re all at different places in our academic journeys, but one thing that binds us together is the significant impact being a Laker is having on our lives. Grand Valley has giving me so much in my time here, and I know that’s possible because of support from alumni and friends.

As I send updates throughout the year, I’m so grateful to have alumni, like you, supporting me throughout my GVSU journey.

Go Lakers,

Alaysha

Miss an email from me? Check back here to see all messages that I’ve sent throughout the year!

October 24, 2023

I know how important a smile can be.

That’s why I want to become a dentist. I want to remove barriers to proper dental care and make sure a person’s smile never makes them feel self-conscious or holds them back. I’m interested in helping incarcerated individuals and people in underserved communities get the care they need. I want to impact their lives like the Grand Valley community has impacted mine.

At GVSU, I’ve always had the resources I need to succeed. From professors and tutors to fellow students, someone is always there for me when I have a question. That has been especially reassuring during this busy fall semester because I’m preparing to apply to dental school. As part of the Pre-Dental Club, I’ve made friends going through the same application process as me. We do practice interviews with each other and help connect with professionals in the field; it’s really helping me build my confidence.

As a first-generation college student, I didn’t imagine everything involved in this process. Even though it’s complicated, I’m confident I will get my applications submitted. It's exciting to think about since I wasn’t even sure I would be able to attend college. Donor-supported scholarships made that possible, and I know the GV community will help me with the next steps, too.

You and the Laker community have inspired me to push myself and keep finding ways to give back. That's why I want to share my Grand Valley experience and show you the difference you make for students. 

I'm not sure what's next in my junior year, but I'm excited to bring you on the journey with me!

January 25, 2024

Welcome to 2024! The new year brings the start of the winter semester, new opportunities for growth, and, of course, lots and lots of snow. When I returned to a snow-covered campus, I was determined to hit the ground running and leave no opportunity unexplored. I'm very excited to share what's on the horizon at Grand Valley. 

The new year is all about new opportunities, and this semester I'm looking forward to exploring more within my program. My goal has always been to be a dentist, but I want to learn as much as I possibly can about different subjects before specializing in dental school. This semester, I'll be taking microbiology to learn more about safety within the health care system. This will help me provide a safe environment for my future patients. 

The Laker community has worked hard to ensure that Grand Valley students have as many opportunities as possible. Taking new classes, working on new projects, and looking for new careers is all made possible because of support from alumni and friends. 

Thanks for coming along with me as I look forward to what this new semester has in store. We couldn't do it without your support. 

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