TRANSFORMATION 2023 V13 03142023a

TRANSFORMATION
A GACCS MAGAZINE
2023
2022 BURGESS SCHOLARSHIP
FOUNDATION AWARDEES
The Admission Fee
To Success
ENDURANCE
. . . ONE MOMENT MORE

██
█ Transformation — Programmed For Change Page 3
█ Endurance, One Moment More Page 4
█ Daniel Pruiett Page 5
█ Growing Pain: Admission Fee To Success Page 8
█ Khyiana Tate Page 9
█ Lanise Tyus Page 11
█ Nicholas Clark Page 14
█ Kortney White Page 16
█ Kayla White Page 18
█ Johnathan Colter Page 20
█ Glenie Cross Page 22
█ Jayden Byrd Page 26
█ Makaela Harris Page 28
█
Change: Happens for Improvement
& Advancement Page 31

TRANSFORMATION
Just when you thought you had it all together, that you'd made the right decision,
and you were sure that things were going along fine . . . then it happened!
CHANGE!
LIFE IS A JOURNEY. LIVE WELL
& ENJOY GOD’S PROMISES
" So, here's what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your
everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going to work,
and walking-around life—and place it before God as an
offering.
Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do
for him. Don't become so well-adjusted to your culture that you
fit into it without even thinking.
Instead, fix your attention on God. You'll be changed from the
inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you and
quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always
dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the
best out of you and develops well-formed maturity in you."
Romans 12:1-2 (MSG)
St. Paul the Apostle
3

ONE MOMENT MORE
ENDURANCE
. . . the ability to withstand hardship or adversity; especially
the ability to sustain a prolonged stressful effort or activity
ENDURANCE DURING DISAPPOINTMENT
It’s during the times when our
expectations were not met that
we are more prone to feel it.
Be Aware Of Those Feelings That So Easily Come
• Independence! Don’t decide To Go Off On Your Own And Disconnect From God. Although
you may be angry because things did not go your way and that God failed to provide for
you what you believed you needed, turning away from God only allows the enemy to draw
your attention.
• Do Surrender! . . . By Acknowledging That You Are Disappointed And Frustrated. Then
Make Your Next Step To Ask God What You Should Do. Surrendering is not dreadful, but
it can be a noble thing to do to get unstuck. It is through surrendering that helps you
recognize that you need a new plan and a chance to be wise and ask God what to do.
Check out James 1:5-8 (MSG).
• Don’t Give Up And Decide That Nothing Will Ever Go Right Again! Giving up is a
longstanding trick of the enemy. He wants you to believe that God is not for you, even
though you know God loves you and always has. Satan's assignment is to infiltrate your
mind and make you believe that you are not loved. Disappointment provides him an
opportunity to do just that. Be alert . . . don't let that happen!
• Make Sure You Understand Who’s In Control. God's plan for you is for good and to give
you an expected end. (Jeremiah 29:11) He's assured you in Romans 8:28 that He makes
everything work together for your good, which includes disappointments. Have faith that
your future will be better than your past.
• Understand When God Is Saying No! Allow God to guide you. Being focused is a significant
part of being in tune with what God wants you to do.
Psalm 42:11 (TLB) But, O my soul, don’t be discouraged. Don’t be upset. Expect God to act!
For I know that I shall again have plenty of reason to praise him for all that he will do.
He is my help! He is my God! 4

Daniel Pruiett
WAYNE COUNTY
COMMUNITY
COLLEGE
(Sports Science)
My relationship with God is significant
to me. My mother taught me early on
that I could achieve anything with
God's help and strength. A single
parent raised me, and I saw firsthand
blessings from God.
I want to grow spiritually by putting
God's word into action. I read the
Bible a lot and can point out different scriptures, and I feel like if I understand
them, I should put them into action, which will help my well-being. My church
home is Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church in Detroit.
Different experiences that have benefited my future goal would be my experience
taking college classes and showcasing basketball games I've played thus far. My
decision to take on the challenge of graduating college will help me toward
The GACCS foundation
scholarship award will help
me reach my immediate
goals by helping me
financially to get through
college and graduate so I
can be the second in my
family to do so.
success in my future. Taking these
classes and graduating from college
will help me have a career outside of
basketball in the future. Lastly, playing
in All-American basketball showcases
will help towards my goals because I
will have the chance to elevate my
level of play and that will help when I
play professional basketball overseas
in the future.
My goal is to be the second person in
my family to graduate from college after my mother. My plans for my career after
graduating college and playing professional basketball would be to become a
physical therapist for the NBA or a head coach. My goal is to be married and
have a family and strong relationships with family and friends. My goal for the
future is to be happy and enjoy blessings with family and friends.
5

Starting with going to school during my elementary years, I remember always
making my class laugh; I would even get laughs from my teachers. Assignments
were easier around that time because the elementary school I went to felt like
one big family. I remember helping friends with homework, and I would receive
the same help back when I needed it. In middle school, everything switched
quickly. I lost friends because they all went to a different school than I did. I
remember having to make new friends and trying my best to fit in.
Academically, I remember constantly being
distracted and never turning in my work on time.
The only time I was focused and getting good
grades in middle school was when my mother
allowed me to play for a basketball team in the Jr.
NBA with Coach Shawn. Fast forwarding to high
school, I remember being scared every day. In
high school, I tried to avoid many things people
were doing that could harm my life. Academically
I didn't start caring about school and my GPA until
11th grade.
Coach Shawn was the one person I would say that had the most positive
influence on me through high school. He was my childhood basketball coach,
and I've always respected him since we met. Coach Shawn was the youngest
coach in the league then, and I was a kid who needed guidance. He showed me
different sides of how life works. He always said that I could do anything only if I
believed. I remember him picking me up and dropping me back home after
practices and games.
Throughout my high school years, God played a part in many things. The people
around me often made me feel crazy in the head, but God didn't. Praying helped
me get through high school and kept me out of a lot of trouble.
My current life goals were developed because of God, Covid, deaths in my
family, and my girlfriend. I asked God to homeschool me in my senior year, and
then Covid happened. I ended up having online school my senior year. During
Covid, I had a lot of time to figure myself out. That's when I decided I wanted to
graduate from college and be a pro basketball player overseas.
It was not until a few family members passed away from Covid that I met my
girlfriend. She opened my eyes to a better life that included owning businesses
and homes. I know I will succeed in these areas because I'm a diligent worker,
and I know myself, and God will not let me fail.
I've been around guys who graduated from college and played pro basketball
overseas. I’ve seen firsthand that it is possible to be Black and own your own
6

businesses and homes. I've managed my life's challenges by listening to my
instincts.
God has made me very observant, intelligent, and strongminded
to manage different challenges. He is positioning me
to receive His best and I must remain focused on His word,
His will, and His plan. I am thankful for God's interest in my
future.
7

GROWING PAINS:
THE ADMISSION FEE TO SUCCESS
“No one will be able to oppose you as long as you live, for I will be with you
just as I was with Moses; I will not abandon you or fail to help you. Be strong
and brave, for you will be a successful leader of my people; and they shall
conquer all the land I promised to their ancestors.” JOSHUA 1:5-6
Regardless of how hard we try to avoid it, challenges and pain show up! Sometimes it’s because we've failed to do
what we knew was right, and other times we've followed the instructions just as given. So, what makes us think that
life should be void of challenges that often bring pain?
Even in Joshua's case, God never told him that he would not experience pain or disappointment. What He promised
Joshua was that He'd be with him. "You need only to be strong and courageous and to obey to the letter every law
Moses gave you, for if you are careful to obey every one of them, you will be successful in everything you do.
Constantly remind the people about these laws, and you yourself must think about them every day and every night
so that you will be sure to obey them. Only then will you succeed. Yes, be bold and strong! Banish fear and doubt!
For remember, the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:7-9 (TLB)
Success is not pain-free. So, stop questioning when you have adhered to God's direction and obeyed His laws about
why you are uncomfortable or have some level of pain. Don't stop. If you do pause, let it be as brief as possible. Get
up and continue moving forward because success is ahead of you. Life's provocations may include loss, failure,
setbacks, moral compassing, mastering your mind, and overcoming your personal story (uncontrollable things). You
have to go through all of it to get to your destiny.
Take note that fear and anticipation of pain have stopped many journeys. It doesn't take much to instill fear in the
heart of most people. Remember when Moses sent out twelve spies to view the promised land they were to possess,
how only two returned with a report that the land could be theirs? The other ten went from tent-to-tent convincing
families that they could not take the land. They increased fear to the extent that the Israelites foolishly wanted to
return to Egypt through dangers that only God brought them. But isn't that just like us? We fail to honestly remember
how God miraculously carried us through our last achievement and then decide we can go no further. Or do we want
to go back rather than face yet another challenge?
So, let's be honest. How many conversations have you had with yourself that your journey should be easier and less
anxiety-provoking? Our minds can be a powerful obstacle in pacing our journey. Unlike other things we can gain
control over, proficiency in the mind requires daily work. Wherever we go, there it is ―our mind. God is fully aware of
our dilemma.
That is why God spoke so plainly to Joshua, "Give it everything you have, heart and soul. Make sure you carry out
the revelation that Moses commanded you, every bit of it. Don't get off track, either left or right, so as to make sure
you get to where you're going. And don't for a minute let this Book of The Revelation be out of mind. Ponder and
meditate on it day and night, making sure you practice everything written in it. Then you'll get where you're going;
then you'll succeed. Haven't I commanded you? Strength! Courage! Don't be timid; don't get discouraged. God, your
God, is with you every step you take." Joshua 1:7-9 (MSG)
BE PREPARED FOR GROWING PAINS, AND UNDERSTAND THAT IT IS A PART OF THE JOURNEY 8

SIGNING WITH KHY
Meet KHYIANA TATE from
The Detroit School of Art
to Madonna University
Look out world, Khy
is working her plan.
“I have been told NO and that I can’t do
something because I’m Deaf. This has helped
me to never give up and let everyone know I
can, and I will do anything I put my mind to.”
Goals: I want to be a Teacher. I remember
all of my Deaf Teachers, and only one was
Black. I also plan to have my own
restaurant and I have already published a
sign language guide.
My growth emotionally and academically over my grade school years was
challenging. I started in a Deaf School in early elementary that provided a loving
and inclusive environment. Then I enrolled in a hearing school because the Deaf
School closed. Students were mean to me, and because I had no effective ways to
communicate with everyone, my self-esteem was low, and I was depressed.
My family relocated to South Carolina, and I loved the Deaf School there and was
able to regain my confidence and self-esteem. By the seventh grade, my family
returned to Michigan. I went to a hearing school again but then transferred to The
Michigan School for the Deaf. It felt like home until COVID.
I felt alone again with virtual school because I was not able to see my friends and
extended family. I again became depressed. Because classes were online, I
struggled and was in danger of not graduating on time. But “my God” had other
plans, and my mother is a wise woman. She put me in therapy and support
programs and that helped improve my emotional state. My mother was highly
supportive of me, despite her own difficult childhood. She had to raise her younger
siblings because her own mother (my grandmother) had a drug addiction. Then my
mom became a teen mother herself. My mother was resourceful and arranged for
me the help I needed. My mother is the best! She learned to sign to communicate
with me. She put me in everything to help me, and she always supports me. My
godmother is a business owner, and I look up to her too. I have always been
9

determined and when I was depressed or feeling suicidal, I would pray, and I
always knew God would make a way for me. My relationship with God is a
significant source of support for me. I sign and pray to God all of the time.
I published my first
ABC Sign Book in
January 2022, and my
plan is to make more
books to include Deaf
Black and Brown
children. My goal is to
create a series.
I want to be not only a
notable author and deaf
teacher, but an
entrepreneur and
restaurant owner.
I’ll succeed because I
believe in myself, I’ve
prayed about it, and I’ll
continue to pray and
work hard for these
goals. I recognize that I
will always need
interpreters and an
ongoing support system to be successful. I will manage those challenges with the
support of my mom, my best friend, and with prayer.
I know I’ve been through a lot, but I’m determined. I hope to
avoid debt as much as possible. This is why I am so grateful for
scholarship programs like the Leroy Burgess Foundation.
Look out world, Khy is working her plan!
10

THE PLANS OF
LANISE TYUS
WITH HELP FROM
GOD, FAMILY &
FRIENDS
From: OAKLAND EARLY
COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL
To: DOUGLAS J AVEDA
INSTITUTE
I feel like my relationship with God started by always being in church. Our family
went several times a week, Sunday morning, and afternoon, Wednesday Bible Study,
and other activities. With most of my family members involved in some way in the
ministry, I was also involved with church activities a lot of the time. For a while, my
dad was also a Pastor. I saw how he studied the Word of God and covered our family
in prayer. I learned the importance of having a personal relationship with God.
But it was when I attended a Christian Private school that I truly discovered my
intimate, personal relationship with Jesus Christ. I remember the first chapel service
we had. I had never felt the presence of God so heavy in the room before in my life.
I think people sometimes get so caught up in
pretending in the house of the Lord, doing, and
saying certain things, that they forget that praise
and worship are for God and not anyone else. But at
this school, I truly fell in love with God's word. I
learned so many things that I can apply to my life,
which helped me grow more in my devotion to God.
"I must prioritize reading God's word and increase
the time I spend in prayer. I listen to worship music
daily, which I feel sets the tone for my day. I have
heard that people make time for what's important to
them. And since God is important to me, I will make
more of an effort to spend time with God every day."
I have heard that people
make time for what’s
important to them. And
since God is important to
me, I will make more of an
effort to spend time with
God every single day.
11

It’s a blessing to have my work experiences coincide with my goals and desires for
the future. I worked in a fullservice
Spa which offered facials,
body waxing, hair services,
manicures, pedicures, and
massages. Best of all, they
provided continuing education
courses. I was able to attend a class
about a natural skincare line we were
selling at the spa. My manager knew
that I would be starting at the Aveda
school to study esthetics, so she allowed me to learn everything about the products,
try the products and learn how they affect the skin and their benefits.
While in high school, I also attended the Oakland Early School on the Campus of
Oakland Community College. I received an associate degree by spending an extra
year in high school. I graduated from Oakland Community College with an Associate
of Arts Degree. In addition, I received an Associate of Science Degree from Wayne
County Community College. While in college, I took human anatomy and physiology I
& II, which gave me a better understanding of what to expect in esthetician school. I
have worked hard to achieve in the area of an esthetician, which appears to be
paving the way for a promising future. I have always loved the esthetician work
industry, and now is the perfect time to do something I've loved all my life. So, in May
2023, I will attend Ascension Providence School of Diagnostic Medical Sonography. I
was able to finish all my prerequisites while I was in high school. My short-term plan
is to work at a hospital as an ultrasound technician. But my ultimate goal is to have
my own business and work as an esthetician.
12

"Thankfully, my personal life is uncomplicated. I want to
continue to be happy and at peace. I plan to form good,
healthy relationships with people and to continue to
spend more time in God's word".
The GACCS Foundation Scholarship Award will help me reach my immediate goals
because I can only work part-time while in the program, and financial aid won't cover
all of the expenses.
"I have been applying for scholarships, and so far, I was fortunate enough to receive
one. I realize every little bit will help, and I am so grateful that my mother found this
scholarship and encouraged me to apply. This scholarship will help ease some of the
financial pressures of the tuition costs.”
A Goal Without A Plan Is
Just A Wish
13

NICHOLAS
CLARK
SMALL BUSINESS MANAGEMENT
ATTENDING SCHOOLCRAFT COLLEGE
"I don't remember much from elementary school, but in middle
school, it felt like school came easy to me, and I didn't have to
try very hard since I was doing well with little effort. Then
when I got into high school, I saw that more opportunities
were available to those who went above and beyond. So, I
took every opportunity I could, including entering an
advanced college program when I was in the 10th grade.”
T
hat was when I had to learn about managing my workload because there
were weeks when I was up every night doing homework because I
waited too long to do an assignment. Or I thought I knew a subject pretty
well, but later found out that I didn’t. So, I had to study harder. I learned
to start early and develop a plan. This came in handy when I moved to a
different house for my junior year. Online school was a challenge at first, but it
prepared me and taught me how to be self-reliant and not having to ask anyone for
help. So, when my senior year coincided with the pandemic and everything went
online, I was accustomed to it and I kept up without missing a beat.
14

M
y parents are the most positive influence in my life, especially during
high school. They cheered me on at my soccer games and marching
band events. They made sure that I got my homework done before I
went to those events. They are always there to help me get things done. Band and
soccer have also positively influenced my
high school years. They’ve helped me learn
about pushing myself, handling stressful
situations, being aware of my limits, and
interacting with others. All of this has
influenced me in ways that I will never forget.
W
hether, it was a new way to look at
a situation or even people, I know
God has played a significant part in
my high school years by opening my eyes and
challenging me to change my thinking. God
has given me opportunities that would benefit
Him. He's given me power and the strength to
do all things. My current life goals are to finish my degree at Schoolcraft College,
learn how to scale my business, learn new skills, and maintain a healthy and active
lifestyle. I’m interested in being a business owner and I want to learn everything I
need to be a successful entrepreneur. I am prepared to master new skills and even
learn a new language if it would be beneficial to my business. What I enjoy the
most is cars, cars, and more cars! My business will be related to cars in some way.
Car parts, car maintenance, car advertisement, and more. Yes, it's all about cars for
me. That's the area where I know I can shine and be the person I enjoy being the
most.
G
OD helps me see what direction and path I should be moving in,
and I trust Him. He has provided me with everything I need and
protects me from harm and danger. He is a ‘Very Present H elp’ in
times of trouble.
15

Seeing The Future Of
KORTNEY WHITE
From: LAKEVIEW HIGH SCHOOL
To: JOHNSON & WALES
UNIVERSITY
Baking & Pastry Arts and Food & Beverage
Service Management
Hi, I'm Kortney, and yes, you see my future as I visualize it.
I believe in Jesus Christ and want to grow closer in my relationship with God. I love being in
His presence when I dance and worship. My interest in culinary arts was developed during high
school with the help of several loving mentors. They demonstrated great skill and much love for the
field. I aim to graduate with a bachelor's degree in Baking & Pastry Arts and Food & Beverage
Service Management. Then, I plan to transfer into Psychology. My life goal is to open a Bakery &
Coffee Shop, and a Training Center which would allow me to host classes for inner city youth and
provide them with opportunities to share their passion for food. I also want to use cooking as a
therapy method to help families cope with stress and teach them about proper nutrition.
During elementary school, my grades were pretty stable.
When I got to middle school, I struggled a lot and I needed
tutors and extra help but, nothing seemed to help. Then, I
entered the ninth grade, and everything changed. My grades
improved instantly, and I was happy with the change. But
late in the tenth grade, I received a concussion from a basketball
injury. I suffered from depression for the next six months,
right in the middle of the global pandemic. I fought my way out
of that and worked hard to finish on a better note, but not as I
would have desired. The experience did show me that I
am stronger than I think.
In the fifth grade, we had to write our goals for the future.
My mom kept my letter and pictures. She showed them to me,
and it helped me to continue to gravitate towards culinary arts.
In the ninth grade, my parents sat down with me and asked where I saw myself after school and my
field of study. Then they gave me opportunities to study in those areas to see if I was serious about
it. I took Career Technology Education in junior and senior high school. I worked in a fast-food
restaurant in my senior year. I love to create and cook. When my parents took me on a college tour,
I knew I had found my place. My aunt is an executive chef and nutritionist, and I remember going
to work with her many times and collaborating with her on several special baking projects.
16

During high school, my therapist Loretta Forbes, had a significant impact on my life and
helped me through that tough time. And my parents were supportive, and they all remain a huge
influence on me. Without God, I would not have been able to make it. From relationships,
grades, and social activities to figuring out the type of woman I wanted to be, I have leaned on
God for everything. I have been able to deal with typical teen peer pressures because I am
surrounded by Godly people who help me stay in the word of God.
I have tried to make an impact on my community and help those in need by working at local
food banks and giving meals to the homeless. During the summer, I volunteered at a camp
which helps young children whose family members are dealing with substance abuse issues.
I also worked with children at my church during the summer enrichment classes:
Performing Arts, Drama, Dance, and Art. I volunteered as a disc jockey and was a co-host on
our teen podcast and live ministries. I participated in our annual back-to-school events. I served
as vice president of my high school class, and also student council. I have participated in
marching-concert band, basketball, track, and dance beginning in middle throughout high
school.
Education, service to my community and being involved in God honoring activities are so
important to me, and I believe it has made me a suitable candidate for the Leroy Burgess
Scholarship Award. I am grateful to have been selected.
It’s Important To See
Yourself In Your
Future!

Now Attending:
UNIVERSITY OF
MICHIGAN
I’m Kayla White, a sophomore
attending the University of Michigan,
Dearborn, and I’m majoring in Children
& Families. My goal is to eventually
earn a master's degree in a related
area. I look forward to working with
children.
Ever since I was little, I’ve been timid, and it often affected what activities
and events I would allow myself to participate in. My parents always
taught me not to let fear control my life and they encouraged me to do the
things that made me a little uncomfortable. Through different experiences
from elementary, middle, and high school, I have learned to push myself
out of my comfort zone and flourish in areas where I had to let go of my
shyness.
God guided me through high school and I’m happy to announce His
faithfulness through my first two years at the University of Michigan. Even
though two years were filled with an abundance of challenges, including
the global pandemic, I managed to handle everything. Having all the
courses online negatively impacted me because I felt I was left to fend for
myself. It was unclear if our professors were giving students their best, the
way they had done in the past.
Although I was frustrated, my parents and grandparents were a constant
encouragement for me. They reminded me of Philippians 4:13, that I can
do all things through Christ who strengthens me. I began praying every
night that God's will be done. I asked God to give me strength daily in
every area of my life to help me to get all ‘A’s’ in school. I reminded myself
that my relationship with God is meaningful and is of immense value.
18

Since age thirteen, He has always come through for me. In my sophomore year, I
developed a morning routine of personal devotions. I realized that I must stay
connected to the One who has always been there for me. I wake up every morning
and I trust Him wholeheartedly. God answered my prayer, and I am an all 'A' student.
I went on three Detroit mission trips
during high school and that led me to
volunteer during college to help run a
kid’s camp. That is when I realized that I
looked forward to working with children.
My plans after graduation include working
for children and family services while I work
on my master's degree. As I grow in my
relationship with God, I want to continue to
grow in service to my community through
volunteering.
"So long as I have God by my side, I can get
through any challenge I face. I am
determined to accomplish my goals, and I
refuse to give up no matter how hard it may
get.”
"So long as I have God
by my side, I can get
through any
challenges I face. I am
determined to
accomplish my goals,
and I refuse to give up
no matter how hard it
may get.”
19

Introducing
JOHNATHAN
COLTER
From: Detroit School Of Arts
To: Franciscan University
of Steubenville
"I want to help people around me stay positive
and have a good mental state of mind, and that
is why I want to be a psychiatrist. I want to
improve the mental health of others, helping
them to maintain a good state of mind."
I love people and I’ve always been concerned about others. It’s a joy to be around other people
and I was able to develop many friendships while attending the Detroit School of Arts. I want
to grow in my faith and in my relationship with God, and I hope to see this increase more
while I attend the Franciscan (Catholic) University. Anytime I need something, or I just want
to talk to God, I pray. One of my favorite ways of worship is singing or listening to songs that
help me know and understand God's ways more. I am a hands-on learner. I faced many
challenges while in both the eleventh grade and twelve grade.
My long-term goal is to be a psychiatrist because my concern is for the emotional health of
others. I enjoy helping people learn to live life to its fullest.
I realize that it’s essential to do the things that are right and to do the things you enjoy. I enjoy
singing about God's goodness, and I know rapping attracts my generation. So, I rap about the
“one I love most, God.” While under the influence of the Holy Spirit, I wrote “Pure Organic
Cold Pressed Juice” and performed it live at the Franciscan University at Steubenville.

"The Holy Spirit is coming through.
When I drink my Organic Cold Pressed Juice,
I've got my energy and don't get tired.
I drink it up, and I'm on fire."
I also produced “Stay On Up (Jesus Is The Way)” and “A Tribute To Detroit – Big City.” My
nickname is “Big John” and I’ve been rapping for a few years. I’ve even put a few selections
on YouTube. Moving forward, I remind myself to pursue my dreams, remember to seek God's
Kingdom and His Righteousness, while I strive to help the mentally and emotionally
challenged.
According to the Surgeon General's report, "Mental health is
fundamental to overall health and productivity. It is the basis for a
successful family, community, and social contributions. Throughout the
lifespan, mental health is the wellspring of thinking and communication
skills, learning, resilience, and self-esteem."
After high school, aspiring psychiatrists must earn a bachelor's degree, which usually takes
four years. After completing a bachelor's degree, four years of medical school is required, and
then a four-year residency program must be completed. Some psychiatrists also complete
fellowship programs for additional training.
There is no specific undergraduate psychiatrist degree that is required. Some students major
in psychology, while others major in a pre-medicine program. Although there is flexibility
regarding your degree choice, it's necessary to take plenty of science and mathematics
courses, which is why a pre-med program is an excellent choice. If you choose to major in
pre-med, consider minoring in psychology.
Before choosing an undergraduate psychiatrist degree program, it's a promising idea to look
at your options for medical school. Examine the entrance requirements for a few different
medical schools, and then ensure that your degree program will allow you to meet those
requirements.
An aspiring psychiatrist does need to complete a four-year residency program. During the
last two years of medical school, students can expect hands-on training at teaching hospitals
and similar facilities. A residency is like an extension of this. Residents work in hospitals and
clinics, diagnosing, treating, and monitoring patients experiencing various challenges.
*Abstract from https://www.gcu.edu/blog/psychology-counseling/how-become-psychiatrist
Take The Time To Research The Careers That Most Interest You.

“It was in high school
when I thought my life was
falling apart that I truly
grew closer to God and
understood our
relationship.
At this point in my life,
I am still learning and
growing spiritually.”
FROM OAK PARK HIGH SCHOOL
TO PRINCETON
GO PRINCETON TIGERS!
I was injured multiple times and I was unable to play football or run track,
especially during my senior year. This was incredibly challenging for me. I felt like
my faith was tested. But what I thought was the end of the world turned out to be a
blessing because it allowed me to see another side of the sport as a youth coach. I
discovered that is what I’d like to do in the future.
My aim is to earn a degree in economics and finance and ultimately open my
own business. However, my dream career is to play in the NFL. I also want to give
back by helping at youth camps and events that teach young athletes the importance
of academic excellence. For those young athletes who want to advance to the next
level in their sport, I want to inform them about the recruiting process.
As a scholar and an athlete, life can be stressful, so I make sure I spend time
with my friends and my family, as well as taking time for my personal needs.
22

Since I was young, my parents have always stressed the importance of
education and encouraged me to never do less than my best. In
elementary school I went to the Foreign Language Immersion and
Cultural Studies School (FLICS) in Detroit, and since kindergarten I
studied Japanese. I really enjoyed FLICS, the classes, and the friends I
made. During middle school, I wanted to be challenged more and I asked
to change schools. My parents enrolled me at the Academy at the
University of Detroit Jesuit for 7th and 8th grades. My classes included
ninth-grade Algebra. I also played football, basketball, and ran track.
Although UDJ was challenging academically and provided opportunities
for various extracurricular activities, I didn’t
want to stay there because of my own
perceptions about the school’s culture and
climate.
So, I attended Oak Park High School (OPHS)
for the ninth through twelth grade. UDJ
prepared me well, and I continued to excel
academically and athletically. At OPHS, I took
Advanced Placement classes along with
courses at the Center for Advanced Studies and
the Arts. I also played football and ran track.
High school was challenging, not because I
couldn't manage the workload, but because the
pandemic caused a significant turnover of teachers, especially math
teachers. I still excelled and was elected the title of Valedictorian. I pray
I’m prepared for college.
Throughout my entire life, my grandmother has always been my spiritual
advisor. And as the prayer warrior of the family, she played a crucial role
in my high school success. Injuries over the years kept me from
participating in sports, and surgery at the beginning of my senior year
prevented me from playing football. And that had me depressed. I had
plans to receive a football offer from a top football program.
Not being able to play had me questioning my future, and asking myself,
will I be able to play in college? Will I receive an athletic scholarship? I
felt like I was in a shallow place during this time. But the power of prayer
23

got me through and that helped me recover faster. My grandmother
reminded me that God is in control of my life. There are no mistakes
because my steps are ordered, and God will always get me to where I'm
supposed to be.
I believe that I will succeed because I can do everything through God who
strengthens me. I work hard and have learned not to give up on my goals
and dreams. I know that God is in control, even when things don't go as I
planned. I have people in my life who have been through the recruiting
process for the NFL, and I have several relatives and family friends who
are successful in finance and serve as mentors. Just as I enjoy helping
others, I am grateful to have people willing to help and mentor me. I
know that only a tiny percentage of college-football players make it to the
NFL; however, I am not concerned with the statistics as I am a child of
God. I will continue to work hard, listen to my mentors, and trust in God.
Trusting in God is how I manage all challenges in my life. I used to get
frustrated or anxious when things got difficult. And although I grew up in
the church attending Sunday school, singing in the choir, and
participating in the Christian Youth Fellowship, it wasn't until I fractured
my collarbone and needed surgery that I understood what it meant to
trust in the Lord. I thought my days of playing football were over, which
meant I wouldn't be able to play in college or have the opportunity to
play professionally. However, through prayer and faith, I was recruited to
play football at one of the top universities in the country. I have the
opportunity to play football and learn from world-renowned professors. I
am blessed.
I am excited about the opportunity to study and play football at Princeton
University. However, Princeton does not offer academic or athletic
scholarships. And although I was blessed to receive a need-based grant,
my family is still expected to contribute $7500 towards my education. I
am doing what I can to lessen the financial burden on my family.
The power of prayer is, quite simply, the
power of God, who hears and answers prayers.
24

I have a few things in common with some of the
Leroy Burgess Legacy Honorees.
I graduated from Oak Park High School like Legacy Honoree
Mrs. Francine Richardson. I am resilient in adversity, and like
Mrs. Hixie Ransaw, I remember “that God chooses my destiny,
but its fulfillment is decided by me".
And I believe in the power of education and giving back to the
community and understand that “It is my responsibility to do
my best. Power belongs to God”, as Mr. and Mrs. Jack and
Sammie Lou Gilbert believed.
I am grateful to Leroy ‘Buddy’ Burgess’ Legacy and the Burgess
Scholarship Foundation of donors for making these awards
possible.
25

JAYDEN
BYRD
Now Attending:
CENTRAL
MICHIGAN
UNIVERSITY
I had a lot of positive influences during my high school years. My
best ones had to be when I was a part of the football team. I learned
the highs and the lows of winning. I learned how to be a part of a
team. I remember the homecoming game in my junior year. That was
the best moment of my high school years, the game as well as the
dance afterwards.
I learned that challenging work is crucial to winning in life. Winning
feels good, and I learned to lead in word and by example. I learned
how to work together to accomplish a common goal. My coaches are
the ones who instilled these principles in me. I can confidently say
that they were the most influential people in my high school. They
taught me things I will take with me throughout my life.
Knowledge is the most incredible power we can obtain as humans and Christians. As one
of my favorite verses, Proverbs 3:13 says, "Happy is the man who finds wisdom and who
acquires understanding". The more wisdom I gain, the better I will be able to handle
things that occur in my own life. My relationship with God is solid. Ever since my
Grandma started taking me to children's church, I always try to pray at least before I go
to sleep every night and I thank God for letting me live another day. I know that He is
always with me no matter what. I want to grow spiritually and increase my knowledge
and understanding of the Bible and the events emphasized in the Word of God.
26

God has been a huge part of my life. During all of my struggles, I knew that I had to
lean on God to get me through them. My darkest time was when my mom was sick and
always in the hospital, but I still believed that God would make it OK.
My life goals stem from how I was raised. My goals are to be a successful, financially
stable Christian man who does a job that makes me happy. I want to work for one of
the big sports management companies and have a high-level position.
I have had a lot of experiences that will be beneficial to my future goals. My time at
CMU has taught me so much. My most influential classes were PES 119 and 180. I
learned so much about business and how the law is conducted. I got real-life experience
and learned from others working in the field.
My goal educationally is to graduate from college with a degree in sports management
and continue to get a bachelor's degree so I can become a manager or a promoter. I
hope to begin my career with an internship this fall. It will open the door and lead to
networking with more senior individuals in the field. When I get my bachelor's degree, I
hope to have a decent starting position.
For my personal life, my main goal is to start traveling. I know
my job will have me traveling to various places across the
country. But I also want to visit other countries. I want to see
the Caribbean.
Relationship-wise, I hope to meet a nice girl eventually, after I'm financially stable. I
hope to settle down and get married by age thirty-five. I would like a life and a job that
makes me happy.
I grew a lot emotionally and academically during my school years. Before that, I was
always emotionally cut off. Since I was always the youngest kid in my classes, I kept to
myself. But in my middle school years, I started to grow more. In high school, I began to
come into my own and express myself more. I was even voted the student with the best
personality. Academically I always excelled. The only class I ever struggled with was
math. But the more I studied, the better I got.
I can succeed in sports management because I plan to and am willing to work hard. I
have also learned what to do because of the experiences I've gained. I know plenty of
people who have been successful in the sports management arena. My first year PES
professor is an example. He graduated from the same college I attend now and went on
to have a promising career as the Athletic Director of CMU. Now he is a professor
teaching us everything he learned. He took me under his wing, and I have tried to gain
as much knowledge as possible from him.
Because of the Burgess Scholarship Foundation, I can continue my academic path. I plan
to finish college and graduate and start a productive career.
27

FROM: NORTH
FARMINGTON
HIGH SCHOOL
TO: GRAND VALLEY
STATE UNIVERSITY
MAKAELA
HARRIS
M
y relationship with God has been rocky. It took me a long while to truly
get to know Him, and now, I genuinely want to know Him better.
However, I’m trying to improve my faith and relationship with Him
every day. Spiritually I would like to be able to talk to God more and not feel like
I'm going to talk to Him about wrongful things or feel ashamed when I need to
speak to Him. I want our relationship to be a lot more open.
Although I grew up in a single-parent home, God has kept me and has given me
an outstanding foundation. I have a good relationship with myself, and I like the
person that I am. Watching my mom provide for my brother and me helped to
put into perspective the kind of woman I would like to become. I graduated from
high school with honors which should benefit my future goals because it will
prove that I can push through and achieve what I want ― regardless of the
circumstances.
Education-wise, I’ll be going to school in the fall to pursue pediatric nursing. I
want to help children in any way possible. I want to marry a man who
understands me and what I want to achieve. I want a God-fearing man to teach
me things that I didn’t know myself. Overall, I want to live my life to the fullest
and to be happy.
This scholarship award will help me to reach some of my goals, like coming out of
college debt free or with little to no financial obligation. It will help me be better
prepared for the next four years by covering some of the school essentials I'll
need to get through college.
My emotional growth over my middle and high school years has been
tremendous. At the beginning of middle school, I began to learn to manage my
emotions and to understand how they affect me. My academic growth was just as
tremendous as my emotional growth―maybe even more. My grades near the end
of middle school and the beginning of high school were not up to my own
28

standards and what I strived to achieve. As I progressed through high school, my
grades also began to excel. My GPA hit a peak, and I even received school awards
for my outstanding scores. It was a reward for the effort I put in to turn my
grades around. My mother has significantly influenced me and my behavior.
Coming from a single-parent household, things were a little different for me
growing up. She was instrumental in the standards I now hold. She assured me
that I could achieve what I wanted, and she helped me with school when I needed
it, even when she didn't have the time.
An incident that also shaped my high school
experience was the death of my father during the
first year, which impacted my behavior for a long
time. However, with the help of my counselor, I
learned that my father's mistakes and his trauma did
not define me and who I chose to be. God played a
huge part during my high school years. As I
mentioned prior, my father's passing led my mother
to put me in contact with a counselor who also
happened to be a Christian. She helped me to
understand the way God can work mysteriously.
Also, I watched how my mother carried herself. I
know God plays a huge part in our lives and my mother pushes me to grow in my
relationship with God regardless of how I may feel or think. Being connected with
the Lord is the best thing for each of us, as He has the final say in every aspect of
our lives.
A huge life goal of mine is to become a pediatric nurse. I love children and enjoy
helping people, especially those unable to stand up for themselves or advocate for
their needs. I want to become an ally for parents and children who can't advocate
for themselves. I want to put worried parents at ease when they feel everything is
going wrong. I believe I can succeed at this because I've always wanted to work in
the medical field, especially with children. It wasn't until recently that I decided
what area I wanted to work in after speaking with my doctor. She told me that
she believed in me and that this could be a good fit for me. Since then, I've had
my mind set on pediatrics.
29

Due to challenges in my life, things have not always come easy. I have not been
very vocal about this in the past. I often would suffer in silence
because I felt I had put myself in this position. I've learned that
this is not how to deal with the issues I face or to solve
problems. Recently, I have been learning to speak up when I
hit a rough patch. Now, when I'm going through a lot, and feel
like I have to face my problems, I know that I don’t have to do
it all by myself.
I believe that I am a suitable candidate for this Burgess Scholarship because I
won't let the award go to waste. I will ensure I achieve my goals and be successful
and stay as humble as possible.
Taking care of children can be a challenging experience. It takes a particular
type of person to take on the full-time job of caring for children with a nursing
career. You will undoubtedly change and save lives with this rewarding career
choice.
Six Types Of Pediatric Nurses:
1. Pediatric Registered Nurse
2. Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
(NICU) Nurse
3. Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
(PICU) Nurse
4. Labor and Delivery Nurse
5. School Nurse
6. Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
Every Line Of Work Is Essential!
Explore. Choose What Best Suits You.
30

Ezekiel 34:26 (NLT) — "I will bless my people and their homes around
my holy hill. And in the proper season, I will send the showers they
need. There will be showers of blessing."
Although we believe we are supposed
to be blessed at all times, Ezekiel
34:26 tells us that we will receive
showers at a specific time, when it is
best.
Periods of difficulty wake us up and
position us to make the necessary
changes to survive. Nothing remains
the same except God and His Laws.
Seasons mean that everything is
temporary. Understand that seasons
are our incentive to plan for change.
Seasons change regardless of
whether we are prepared for the
change or not. So, the best thing we
can do for ourselves is to plan for change.
Every time God wants to use someone, He disturbs their comfort. Abraham
was brought up in comfortable surroundings, and God told him to separate
himself from his family and go into another
land, and gave him little direction. His change
resulted in his being labeled as the "father of
the faith." Moses left a life of ease as a prince
in Egypt until God gave him a passion to help
his people. He became a fugitive after killing
an Egyptian, and that resulted in him, 40
years later becoming the deliverer for Israel.
You cannot become what you were born to be unless you are willing to
change into someone you are not. Change is necessary to improve and
advance your life and does not come to destroy you!
31

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