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Courtney Smith

When you know who you are, no one can convince you of who you are not. I’m secure. I’m loved. I’m confident. I’m capable. I’m free. I’m worthy.

Tell us about yourself

Name: Courtney Smith
School you attend: Eastern Michigan University
Status in school: Senior
Major: (Double Major) Sociology and Communication Theatre Arts
Minor: Social Work
Where are you from: Detroit, MI.

Name two of your personal and professional goals.

Personal Goals:

  1. Graduate from Eastern Michigan University with honors and published research
  2. To give more than I receive

Professional Goals:

  1. To use my artistic talent and abilities as a tool to promote social change, justice, and equity for disenfranchised people groups
  2. To obtain MSW, PHD and full-time employment in the field of Social Work specializing in Public Policy, Non-Profit Management and/or Community Organizing

What supports did/do you have that helped you to succeed?

The staff at Alternatives for Girls, EMU Magic Program, siblings, many college professors, mentors, friends and my church family at King of Love and Detroit World Outreach.

What’s your favorite song to dance and sing to when you’re alone and why?

My favorite song to dance and sing to when I’m alone is: I Know Who I am by Israel Houghton. It’s a song about identity and knowing your value.  I believe that’s half the battle. It’s affirms that when you know who you are, no one can convince you of who you are not. I’m secure. I’m loved. I’m confident. I’m capable. I’m free. I’m worthy.

How do you stay motivated to accomplish your goals?

The way I stay motivated to accomplish my goals is by reminding myself where I came from. That propels me to consider those who are experiencing trials and tribulations. It’s because of “them” that I continue to strive. I believe I’m responsible for the paving the way for future generations because I’ve been granted opportunity. When a person has opportunity to their goals, it’s kind of an obligation to extend someone else the opportunity to achieve theirs. I have a charge to pay if forward. That’s what keeps me pushing every single day!

If Hollywood made a movie about your life, whom would you like to see play the
lead role as you?

Me DUH! Just joking… lol I would have to say Amber Riley from Glee.

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Fostering Success Michigan is a program of Educate Tomorrow that aims to increase access and success in higher education and post-college careers for youth with experience in foster care. Learn how you can contribute to building a holistic network that insulates (i.e., strengthens protective factors and reduces risks) the education to career "pipeline." 

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