We set out to interview real, Michigan charter school graduating seniors to uncover why they LOVE their school, how it helped prepare them for their next steps, and where their path leads next! Check out our interview with 2020 grad, Diamond Coleman!
I have been a student at Universal Learning Academy (ULA) since I was in kindergarten. I have experienced first-hand how a strong school community can build character. There is never a dull moment at ULA. The motivated and inspired staff have made my learning experience one that I will remember forever. Whether it is academics or extracurricular activities, the staff always puts everything they can into what they do. Seeing the effort they put forward motivated me, not only as a student, but as an active member of our school’s community. Fundraisers, athletics, clubs, and committees, it did not matter what it was, I wanted to be a part of it. ULA offers many academic opportunities such as A.P. courses and dual enrollment. Going into my junior year I was driven to be a part of both of these programs, and I am not afraid to admit it was a struggle when I first started. Balancing my classes, which now included these advanced programs, continuing to support all school activities, and having a part-time job outside of school was not something that came easy. ULA helped me learn how to take responsibility for everything I do and prioritize my time. This school has shaped me into who I am today and for that I will be forever grateful.
Starting my freshman year I became heavily involved in Student Government. I was Class President my first two years and in my junior year I was able to take on the position of Student Government President. These roles were especially important to me; they taught me what it takes to be a strong leader. Additionally, I have played basketball for ULA since I was in seventh grade. My passion and love for the sport grew on me as I continued throughout middle and high school. My sophomore year I was added in the MHSAA Individual Girls Basketball Record Book for scoring 47 points in a single game. It was in this moment that being a part of ULA basketball became so much more to me than just playing a sport. Knowing that I had such a strong school community behind me the entire time made everything worth it. As much as I have enjoyed the game, I have made the hard decision that continuing to play basketball will not be a part of my future. I do plan, however, to take my talent and focus on teaching others. I am hoping I will be able to coach basketball at some point in my future so I can instill in others that same love for the game that ULA has taught me.
I have learned so much from many of the amazing staff members at ULA, however Ms. Scott is the one teacher that has inspired me and kept me driven throughout my high school career. Ms. Scott stepped in as our basketball coach my sophomore year when she saw we did not have anyone, and we were at risk of not having a season. Ms. Scott is a first-grade teacher at ULA, who had no experience in basketball or in coaching, but that did not stop her. She pushed myself and my teammates to be the best we could be, and it was her passion and determination that motivated me. Ms. Scott’s passion does not stop with just basketball; she leads ULA’s Spirit Committee, she plans pep rallies, spirit weeks, and is involved in every fundraiser we have. I have learned the importance of what it means to be a part of a school community from her. I know I am not the only student at ULA who has been positively impacted by Ms. Scott; she has become an important leader in the lives of many other students. Ms. Scott has helped me in becoming the person I am today, and I will forever be grateful for everything she has taught me.
School: Universal Learning Academy
Next adventure: Wayne State University
Dreams & goals: Study Kinesiology & eventually become a physical therapist with her own practice!
Michigan's Charter School Association
123 W Allegan, Ste 750
Lansing, MI 48933
Ph: (517) 374-9167