by ·Comments Off on Meet Kay-lee Fuller: paving pathways to success as the College of Health Sciences recruiter
Kay-lee Fuller, recruiter for the College of Health Sciences at the University of Michigan-Flint.

In the vibrant landscape of the University of Michigan-Flint, Kay-lee Fuller, an alumna of the institution, stands out as a dedicated recruiter for the College of Health Sciences. With a journey marked by personal growth and professional excellence, Fuller’s story is an inspiring testament to her passion for education and commitment to supporting students on their educational journeys.

From classroom to career: a journey of purpose

Fuller’s academic path began in September 2018 when she embarked on an undergraduate degree in political science at the University of Michigan-Flint. Her studies, combined with her involvement in community and public service through activities like volunteering and her time in the Phi Sigma Sigma sorority, laid the foundation for a career centered around helping others. 

“My academic environment fostered a passion for community engagement, critical thinking, and public service — all vital components of my current profession,” she says.

Her recruitment journey was sparked by her role as a student ambassador for the Undergraduate Admissions Office. This experience allowed her to hone her communication and interpersonal skills while engaging prospective students through campus tours and events. “Helping students find their career path was truly fulfilling,” Fuller recalls.

Her dedication to education and student support naturally led her to join the Undergraduate Admissions Office full-time as an admissions counselor upon graduating in December 2022. By January 2024, she took on a new challenge as the College of Health Sciences recruiter — a role she embraces with vigor and purpose.

Kay-lee Fuller and family in family photo.

Inspiration and motivation: fueling a passion for lifelong learning

Fuller’s passion for education goes beyond the classroom. She believes that continuous learning is essential for a fulfilling life. “Interacting with a diverse range of individuals — from teenagers to those in their seventies — reaffirms my commitment to helping people achieve their educational goals,” she explains. This belief in the transformative power of education inspires her daily work, as she guides prospective students toward their future at UM-Flint.

Fuller’s unique approach to recruitment draws from a rich tapestry of past roles. She credits her time as a waitress for teaching her vital skills such as multitasking, active listening, and providing excellent service — attributes she seamlessly integrates into student recruitment. “The ability to remain calm and composed in high-pressure situations ensures that I can provide consistent, high-quality support to students and their families,” she emphasizes.

Commitment to professional growth: staying ahead in a digital world

In a field that continuously evolves, Fuller places a strong emphasis on professional development. She actively participates in professional organizations, leverages resources like LinkedIn, and pursues further studies, such as her Master of Public Administration at UM-Flint, to keep her knowledge and skills current.

A personal touch: qualities that stand out

Fuller’s communication skills, empathy, and passion for lifelong learning distinguish her in her role as a recruiter. She prides herself on her ability to connect with students from diverse backgrounds, ensuring they feel supported and encouraged to pursue their academic aspirations. “By actively listening, I can understand each student’s unique needs and provide tailored information and support,” she shares.

Overall, Fuller’s journey and her dedication to education make her an invaluable asset to the College of Health Sciences. Her story resonates with prospective students seeking an enriching educational experience, guided by someone who truly cares about their success, and has walked in their shoes. As she continues to inspire and support the next generation of learners, Fuller exemplifies the transformative power of passion and purpose in higher education.

by ·Comments Off on From Flint to the NIH: Osman Belal’s journey and dedication to addiction research
Osman Belal, CHS Alum, in a suit with his hands held in prayer pose.

Osman Belal’s journey from Flint, Michigan, to the National Institutes of Health is a testament to resilience, dedication and the transformative power of education. A 2022 graduate of the University of Michigan-Flint’s College of Health Sciences majoring in Health Sciences, Belal’s story is one of overcoming challenges and pursuing a passion for research that seeks to make a real difference in the world.

Academic Journey

Originally from Flint, Belal attended three different undergraduate institutions. His academic path was not straightforward—he faced challenges at a large University, including being placed on academic probation, partly due to a lack of support in the large institution setting.

“The environment was very different for me, and the rigor of courses was something I had not fully grasped initially,” Belal said. “The size of the institution made it difficult to get the support I needed.”

However, instead of giving in to discouragement, this moment became a turning point for him. Supported by his family, especially his mother and older sister, he decided to take time off to reevaluate his goals and improve his study habits.

Belal’s decision to transfer to UM-Flint proved pivotal.

“At UM-Flint, I found the support system I needed,” he said. “The one-on-one time with professors, like Jie Song, professor of chemistry and biochemistry, College of Innovation and Technology, made a huge difference. It wasn’t just about small class sizes; it was about faculty being genuinely invested in the success of their students.”

Indeed, Belal thrived at UM-Flint. He was named to the Dean’s List and became deeply involved in various student organizations. He served as the president of the Club Basketball Association and secretary of the Muslim Student Association (MSA), and he was an active member of the MCAT Club.

The Road to NIH

During his gap year after graduation, Belal applied to various research positions, ultimately securing a spot at the NIH. His initial work focused on COVID-19 research, specifically studying the long-term symptoms of the virus in patients. However, it was an email about addiction research that piqued his interest and eventually redirected his focus. Under the mentorship of Nora Volkow, director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse and a pioneer in changing the perception of addiction from a criminal issue to a medical condition, Belal found his calling.

“I went in with this mindset that addiction was purely a willpower issue,” Belal said. “Within a week of working under Dr. Volkow, that perception was completely flipped. I saw concrete evidence of how addiction changes brain chemistry, making it far more complex than societal stigma suggests.”

Inspiration and Future Aspirations

Belal credits much of his drive to the impact of strong role models, including his parents and Volkow. Being Sudanese and coming from an immigrant family, Belal feels a profound sense of responsibility and gratitude for the opportunities he has had. His long-term goal is to become a doctor, focusing on global health.

“Seeing the reality of healthcare in Sudan and other places of need has fueled my determination to make a difference. It’s about using the privileges I’ve had to give back,” he said.

Belal also highlights the importance of representation in science and medicine and aims to inspire other minorities to pursue careers in these fields.

“Being a part of the NIH has shown me the value of diversity in research. I hope to pave the way for others who come from similar backgrounds,” he added.

Giving Back

Belal remains committed to staying connected with UM-Flint. He is particularly passionate about providing current students with knowledge of research opportunities.

“Knowing about opportunities is half the battle. I want to make sure Flint students are aware of what’s out there and have the resources to succeed,” he said.

Belal’s story is not just about personal success but also about the broader impact that education, mentorship and resilience can have. His journey from Flint to the NIH is a powerful reminder of the heights that can be achieved with determination and support.