At the 13th Annual Celebration Luncheon, Taylor Smith took the stage as a powerful example of what’s possible when students are given the support, guidance, and opportunity to succeed. A senior at Clintondale High School and a member of the Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars Class of 2026, Taylor shared a story that resonated deeply with everyone in the room – not just because of where she’s going, but because of how she got there.
Growing up in a loving and supportive family, Taylor always knew she was expected to do well in school, graduate, and attend college. But like many students, she wasn’t sure how to turn those expectations into a clear path forward. She had goals but lacked the knowledge to bridge the gap between dreaming about her future and taking action.
That changed during her sophomore year when she joined Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars. With encouragement from her counselor and support from her advisor, Taylor began to learn the “how” behind college applications, financial aid, and choosing the right school. What once felt uncertain began to feel possible.
Through campus visits and hands-on experiences, Taylor gained clarity about what she wanted in a college environment. Visiting Michigan State University helped her realize she was drawn to a large campus setting, while a conversation with representatives from the University of Michigan during Apply Day helped solidify her academic path. Learning more about engineering programs, coursework, and scholarship opportunities made her decision clear.
This fall, Taylor will attend the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, where she plans to major in Computer Science Engineering.
While her college decision is a major milestone, Taylor emphasized that the most meaningful part of her experience has been the confidence she gained along the way. Through workshops, mentorship, leadership development, and consistent encouragement, she learned how to advocate for herself, step outside of her comfort zone, and build connections with others. She came to understand that asking for help is not a weakness, but a strength.
Taylor also reflected on the impact of the relationships she built through the program, especially with her advisor, Ms. Carroll, who she described as a constant source of support and encouragement. Having someone who believed in her and pushed her to grow opened doors to new opportunities and helped her stay focused on her goals.
Her journey is a reminder that when opportunity is paired with strong support systems, students are empowered to reach their full potential. Taylor expressed deep gratitude to the donors, advisors, and coaches who invest in students like her, recognizing that their support goes far beyond financial assistance – it builds confidence, direction, and opportunity.
As she looks ahead to this next chapter, Taylor carries with her the lessons, skills, and support she gained through Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars. Her story reflects a transformation from uncertainty to clarity, and from aspiration to action. The future is hers, and she is ready for it.
Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars is designed to do exactly what Taylor’s story illustrates. Through dedicated coaches, committed high school advisors, hands-on workshops, and meaningful campus visits, students gain more than just information. They gain clarity, direction, and confidence. It is not only about helping students find a pathway after high school but also ensuring they feel prepared and confident in the choices they make. That combination of support and opportunity is what makes the DRDFS difference, and it is what empowers students like Taylor to move forward with purpose.
“I grew up without a clue of what I wanted to do, or where I wanted to go in life, until I had the opportunity to join Dollars for Scholars my sophomore year of high school. From visiting campuses, to SAT prep, the guidance I received from the program changed my entire outlook.
“From college tours to financial aid, Dollars for Scholars has greatly impacted my path to higher education. As a first generation college student, deciding where I would want to continue my education and figuring out how I would get there was a difficult process. My family and I lacked the time and transportation necessary to visit schools, and this limited me in figuring out my future.
“When joining Dollars for Scholars, I was eager to visit colleges and earn scholarship money. Being able to look at all the different schools with other students I could relate to was so reassuring. Dollars for Scholars was able to answer my questions about the ins & outs of post-secondary education, as well assist me with applications. This extra help was so motivating.
“Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars is a life-changing program. Before high school, I was going down a path that if most kids took, they’d end up either dropping out of school or going to jail. Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars helped inspire me to get on a better path by showing me how to prepare for college. Hearing other students’ stories made me feel like I could be successful both in high school and post-secondary education.