By Graduate Ambassador Evin Donaldson, master’s student in law

Trying to fit in or feel like I am on the right path in life has been a struggle since I was a little kid. I knew at an early age that I wanted to be successful in anything that I did, but I feared my unknown future and failing myself. I would sit in front of the television for hours watching Judge Mathis, Judge Judy and Judge Mablean in awe because I loved the way they called people out and used critical thinking skills to analyze if someone was telling the truth or not quickly. It sparked a fire in me that I did not know I needed.

Since I was a lot bigger and taller than most kids as a child, I was always subject to being teased. I learned how to better understand social cues, read the room, build rapport with others—even bullies—resilience, empathy. It helped me build a wall around my feelings, so I was not easily ruffled by conflict.

After graduating in 2013 from Michigan State University with honors with a degree in retailing, I felt as though I still had some more fight in me to pursue a master’s degree. I just was not sure what I wanted to do. I knew that I enjoyed law, but I did not want to pursue law full time. I took time away from education and was able to fulfill my dream of working at my favorite retailer Target as a human resources lead, then I moved onto do recruiting and human resources leadership at some amazing workplaces. The teasing I received in my childhood essentially worked out in my favor, because all of the soft skills I learned helped me excel as a human resources leader. Through my work in HR, I found a passion for helping others succeed and maintaining order in a workplace.

In Spring 2023, I ran across an email from Wayne State University offering a new master’s program titled “Studies in Law with a concentration in human resources” and knew I had to be a part of this program. I am thankful Wayne State offered a master’s program that incorporated two things that I love, human resources and law. It’s like having the best of both worlds.

While on my journey, I have increased my ability to adapt to complex situations and how to make better logical conclusions. I still fear the unknown—the unknown guarantee of a higher paying career path once I graduate, and the unknown loan amounts I will have to borrow to pay for my education. One thing I do know is that everything always works out for my good. Now I always ask myself: “When has it never not worked out in the end?” and my fear goes away immediately. God has literally never failed me, and I will never fail myself.

I urge anyone that fears the unknown to step out in your dreams and trust in yourself and know that you can do anything!