Sarah’s Story

During her first semester at UM-Dearborn, Sarah Bondy experienced the loss of her father. Then a freshman, the psychology and criminal justice major faced an added pressure to the traditional challenges that come with acclimating to a college setting. But with support from her newfound Wolverine family, Bondy found her stride, eventually becoming a Supplemental Instructor (SI) and climbing the ranks as an SI Assistant Supervisor. In her spare time, she also seeks out various opportunities to mentor fellow students and youth whenever possible. “I want to be able to be there the way other people were there for me,” she says. “I want to be a mentor to students, I want to be a friend — I just want to build relationships with people both in and out of the classroom.” 

Sarah, in her own words

On finding her tribe. “It’s easy to just come to class and go home, but I don’t think you’re getting the full college experience when you do that. So, joining different clubs and being a part of different school organizations is helpful. I really found a community in the Supplemental Instruction department. Having those people who you know have your back and you’re able to have venting sessions with or can go to the library and have those intense study sessions with, makes a big difference. I’ve learned so much from people who attend SI sessions, as well as the other leaders, and drawing on their strengths and experiences has helped me learn and appreciate everything that I’ve gone through. I encourage all students to try things out at the university because it really makes your college experience so much better.”

On the one thing she wishes she’d known as a prospective student. “I would tell anyone who’s looking to come here to do their homework. I don’t just mean homework for classes, but do your homework about the university. I came to UM-Dearborn and didn’t go to any of the Go Blue Fridays or open houses and I kind of regret that. Being a part of those now from the other side, I’ve been able to appreciate how much there is to offer for new students and how many different sports there are that I just didn’t know about.” 

On overcoming adversity. “My dad passed my first semester here and that was a really tough time. But I was able to work with my professors who were understanding and I had students that were supportive and helped me in whatever ways they could. That was really meaningful and I’ve grown a lot through that experience. What I’ve learned through my experiences at UM-Dearborn is how to deal with adversity; not just attacking it head-on, but learning that it’s OK to ask for help. Learning to build relationships with professors and other students has been beneficial.”