Graduating seniors discuss Detroit Mercy memories

As the school year draws to a close, the excitement in the air is palpable, especially for the seniors who are preparing to take the next big step in their lives. After years of hard work, dedication and personal growth, the University of Detroit Mercy class of 2025 is ready to walk across the stage. With countless memories and achievements to look back on, these graduates are not just leaving behind their school years but are also stepping into a world of new opportunities. As we celebrate their accomplishments, let’s take a moment to reflect on what made their experience at University of Detroit Mercy special and the legacy they leave behind.  

Hailey Brannon, Senior  

“My most memorable part of Detroit Mercy was joining Greek life. I joined my second semester of freshman year, and before that I didn’t do a lot of activities on campus. After joining Tri Sigma, I met a lot more people on campus and started being more involved in campus events.”   

Brandon Manuszak, Senior  

“My most memorable moments at school came from taking advantage of fun Detroit Mercy student opportunities, for example, the skiing event. Every year they have a skiing trip you can sign up for through the fitness center, and they even offer transportation. I went with my friends this year and it was a blast.”  

Griffin Steffes, Senior  

“My favorite memory is when I joined Phi Kap because it’s given me wonderful friendships and core memories that I’ll have forever.”  

Abby Karjala, Senior

“A core memory of mine at Detroit Mercy was the ‘Women in Science’ event, put on by the Chemistry Club. This was genuinely one of my favorite events because I was able to talk and discuss with a diverse variety of women in different fields of science and learn more about their pathways to their careers. I gained confidence and great advice from that experience.”  

Aonima Kalam, Senior  

“My favorite memory was the TRIO trip to New York. We went there to see graduate schools, but we also went to Time Square which was really fun.” 

Alex Kalaj, Senior 

“My favorite memory came from my freshman year when I entered an intercollegiate business competition about sustainability in Detroit. I was nervous going into it as I was a freshman going against seniors, but I ended up winning first place.”  

Hasan Alsharifi, Senior  

“My favorite memories came from Titan Fest every year, because that was one of the few times in the year where all the students came together to learn more about the clubs that are offered here, and it was a great opportunity for me to meet people.”  

Victoria Bartholomew, Senior  

“One of my most fond memories was from freshman year PTV when we volunteered to clean up a neighborhood, and while I was raking up leaves, I met 2 other freshman girls that ended up being my best friends throughout college.”  

Brooke Budd, Senior 

“I am grateful for my time at Detroit Mercy because it introduced me to my life long best friends and future bridesmaids.”

Joey Schmaltz, Senior  

“My favorite memory over the past four years was beating Robert Morris University in lacrosse. It was a great game, and my team did a very good job.”