My success at IUPUI would not have happened without the guidance of Dr. Khalilah Shabazz. I came to the Summer Bridge program and was fortunate enough to be in Dr. Shabazz's bridge group — at the time it was called "Refresh."
Being a first generation college student, I was very lost in the beginning of my journey as to how to be a successful college student. I had questions about tuition and financial aid, and staying on top of my academics. Luckily, Dr. Shabazz was around to help and ease the stress I had by directing me to the right people. She made the Summer Bridge group feel like a family.
That family later grew into the Diversity Enrichment and Achievement Program (DEAP). Dr. Shabazz encouraged me to apply to be a mentor in the Summer Bridge program; I pursued it and was a mentor for the following two years.
Dr. Shabazz is like the fairy godmother to my Cinderella. She has always served as a great resource and mentor. I don't know where I would be if I hadn't met her my freshman year. Thank you, Dr. Shabazz.
Story courtesy of:
Efrain Alvarado
Class of 2018
