My dad was murdered at 22 while selling crack. Growing up, most of my role models were in the streets—and almost all of my friends were too.
At 22, the same age my dad died, I started attending Eastern Michigan University. The older I got, the more tempting the streets became…but I never gave in.
Now I’m 27, a Black man with no criminal record and a bachelor’s degree. With the hand I was dealt, I wasn’t supposed to make it this far—but I did.
College isn’t the only path to success, but it saved me and taught me so much. I’m grateful, I’m proud, and I know one thing for sure: I’m winning this game of life. 💪🏾