By Basia Love
Basia Love is a third-year Honors College student pursuing a major in plant biology through the College of Natural Science and a minor in horticulture. She recently received the Excellence in Community Leadership Award, which recognizes first-generation student leaders who are exceptionally committed to serving and uplifting others.
When I pressed submit on my Michigan State University application, I was a bright-eyed, hopeful student from Warner Robins, Georgia. Unsure of what to expect, I found not just an institution, but a community dedicated to cultivating success when faced with adversity. The Honors College and its network of support have been my steady guides, nurturing my academic roots and helping me grow in ways I never imagined.
My journey began with the Academic Scholars Program (ASP), which connected me to the Honors College community. With ASP, I had an opportunity to go through the summer ACE program. This allowed me to complete my first Honors credit, build lasting friendships, and familiarize myself with campus before the hectic rush of move-in days. Alongside programs like MI-LSAMP and TRIO, these initiatives provided the foundational support that set me up for success.
However, my path was not without its setbacks. At the end of my first semester, my GPA fell just short of the Honors College admission threshold. Though heartbroken, I refused to be deterred and continued taking Honors classes. My resilience continued to be tested. During my second semester, a tragedy on campus shattered my sense of home. In the aftermath of the shooting on February 13, 2023, it was the strength of the Spartan community that pulled through. My friends, professors, and staff checked in on me, while we all traversed during the tough time.
Through ASP, the program offered a second chance to get into the Honors College. I joined the ASP Advisory Council as an intern, and then became a social events coordinator. I wanted to give back and provide events to help build the foundation for the next generation.
Empowered by this support, I sought new challenges. I began undergraduate research in Dr. Emily Josephs’s plant biology lab. Under the guidance of Dr, Josephs and graduate student Sophie Buysse, a simple project for course credit turned into passion. I presented my findings at the University Undergraduate Research and Art Forum and then was offered the incredible opportunity to co-author a paper, which is now under peer review.
This research was a transformative experience, solidifying my love for hands-on scientific inquiry. Eager to expand my horizons beyond the lab, I sought to apply my skills in a new environment. This led me to a summer scholar position at the W.J. Beal Botanical Garden. I fell in love with the collections and conservation position. The Beal Botanical Garden is my favorite spot on campus, and being there to help shape the garden for future Spartans is a task that I don’t take lightly.
It’s been a long, hard journey but so rewarding seeing how much I’ve grown and learned since coming to Michigan State University. I’m forever grateful for the opportunities and the amazing support given to me along the way.