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

For Alaysha, 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,

Aliah

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

December 19, 2023

Growing up, my family and I always made a special effort to give back to our community, especially during the holidays. I even started a Giving Tree program at my high school to collect toys and food for local families. When I came to Grand Valley, I was so happy to be part of a community that values giving back to others as much as I do. I've had some amazing experiences at GVSU that were truly life changing and these were all made possible through the generous support of the Laker community.

One of the best experiences I’ve had in my four years at Grand Valley is being able to spend a year abroad in Taiwan. Without the Padnos International Scholarship and the support of Grand Valley donors, I know this wouldn’t have been possible.

Not only was I able to immerse myself in the culture and finish my Chinese language minor, but I grew so much. Navigating a new country on my own pushed me outside of my comfort zone and made me a more confident person. I will carry this experience with me for the rest of my life.

Thank you for your continued support and happy holidays!

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 and share details about graduation!

My goal for my last semester at Grand Valley is very simple: to walk across the stage at commencement and feel proud of all I have accomplished. But there's still a lot left to do before I leave GVSU! My classes this semester will be both the most interesting and the most challenging that I have ever taken. While I'm finishing up at school, I plan to start my job search early so I will have a full-time job lined up after graduation that is both fulfilling and valuable to my career. 

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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