As an Oakland University alumna, I am part of the Alumni Admissions Ambassador Program, sharing my story to prospective students. I connect with high school students in the greater Maryland area and recently had a flashback of my high school days in Pontiac and wanted to share my Oakland University story with students like you.
I grew up in Pontiac and graduated from Pontiac Central High School. My family could not afford to send me to college. I wasn’t aware of scholarships and didn’t visit university campuses before high school graduation. I worked for a short time before eventually enrolling at Oakland University. As a student I worked hard, was encouraged by my professors — and even earned the “student of the year” award when I graduated with honors from Oakland in the 1970’s. I went on to complete a master’s degree from Oakland and a Ph.D. from Iowa State University. I credit Oakland University for my career successes as a dean of students and a vice president.
I encourage you to consider Oakland University as a college option, and not wait like I did. I encourage you to visit the campus and connect with the Center of Multicultural Initiatives (CMI), and apply for admission. You will find great opportunities to enhance your future in programs that are ranked alongside other prominent universities. I know, because I have worked at other universities outside of Michigan, where an Oakland University degree is highly respected.
I congratulate you and encourage you to keep up the hard work and graduate from High School. Although it is sometimes difficult to say farewell to your classmates and teachers, this will be a decision that will make you proud. For you and your parents, graduation day will be marked by joy and celebration. Earning a degree from Oakland University will give you the opportunity to learn, serve, and be a leader in our Pontiac community.
Are you ready? If you have not yet taken the next step to apply for admission, consider Oakland University. I guarantee you will have an amazing experience, and graduate well prepared for a great future.
Sincerely,
Augustine Pounds, Ph.D.
Alumna, Oakland University