University of Michigan
BlavinScholars.org: What degree(s) will you be receiving this spring and what inspired you to pursue that particular major?
Deyanco: I’ll be receiving my degree in Movement science. Being a fitness junky and an athlete, sparked my interested in learning more about the body.
BlavinScholars.org: What awards or honors have you received while at U-M?
Deyanco: I earned a varsity letter for football.
BlavinScholars.org: What is your favorite U-M memory or experience and why?
Deyanco: Being a part of the football program. I worked so hard to accomplish that goal and I was blessed to have great support from the Blavin program.
BlavinScholars.org: What are your short-term goals for after graduation?
Deyanco: Just keep bettering myself mentally, spiritually, and physically.
BlavinScholars.org: Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Deyanco: An entrepreneur. Doing work in the fitness world (business and personal training), giving back to high poverty cities like my hometown. Mentoring the youth and motivating people.
BlavinScholars.org: How have you grown as a person since first entering college?
Deyanco: I’ve grown a lot since entering college, became very well at building relationships and networking.
BlavinScholars.org: What excites you most about your future?
Deyanco: That I won’t be another statistic and continuing to put myself in the best position.
BlavinScholars.org: What advice about higher education and life, in general, would you give to high school students who have experienced foster care?
Deyanco: I would tell them that their identity is a prison that they can never escape, but the way to redeem their past is not to run from it, but to try to understand it, and use it as a foundation to grow. The brain is a terrible thing to waste. Get an education.
BlavinScholars.org: What advice would you offer to incoming Blavin Scholars?
Deyanco: Buy in to the program 100% and the rest is written
BlavinScholars.org: What’s your biggest takeaway from your experience as a Blavin Scholar?
Deyanco: Having a great support system from people that really care about you will lead you to greatness. When I hear the words “Blavin program” first word that pops to my head is “Family.”