East Michigan News

Laila Lloyd arrived at Central Michigan University during a challenging period for an introvert. It was 2021, and while in-person events were occurring, many activities remained online. However, the IMPACT program helped her break out of her shell.

IMPACT is a two-day event held before the Fall semester begins. It pairs new students from marginalized communities with mentors to help them acclimate to the CMU community and campus.

Lloyd found the community-building aspect of the program particularly impactful. The experience inspired her and changed her self-perception.

“I realized that I had the ability to connect with others on a deeper level and be a leader,” Lloyd said.

She also discovered she had the personality and skills necessary for mentorship. Her second year as a mentor solidified these lessons.

“Junior year was transformative,” she said. “It was my best IMPACT yet.”

Although IMPACT’s programming spans just two days, the relationships formed are enduring. Lloyd consistently checked in on her mentees over both years, ensuring they stayed on track for success.

“I kept in touch with my mentees because their growth was important to me,” she said. Some were introverts like herself, and she felt gratified watching them flourish.

Many of her mentees have become active on campus, some joining the student organization Lloyd founded with her roommate. Others have followed in her footsteps by taking on mentorship roles within IMPACT.

This year presents a new challenge for Lloyd related to IMPACT. Now a senior, she is part of the event’s core staff. Although tempted to mentor for a third year, she was encouraged to apply for an organizational role instead, pushing herself out of her comfort zone once again.

She has attended Fire Up Fridays and spoken before groups larger than 100 people. Additionally, she works information tables, answering questions and sharing her experiences with IMPACT.

Pushing herself has not only helped Lloyd develop new skills but also filled her with confidence to face new challenges.

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