ATARI HAMEED

MISS BLACK MICHIGAN USA 2005

As Miss Black Michigan 2005, I attribute much of my success to the long legacy of strong, influential black women who have guided me to be the outstanding woman I am today. I grew up in a working class family with strong family values and deep appreciation for my elders. My summers were spent helping my grandmother run her bed and breakfast located near Lake Michigan. It was during those times, that my cousins and I learned about our family history.  Further, we learned from her the importance of our spirituality, and to become virtuous, God-fearing women. I attended Grand Rapids Central High School, were I was an active member of my class. Issues such as teen pregnancy, substance abuse, and truancy surrounded me, but my strong motivation to succeed helped me achieve my goal of going to college. I attended Michigan State University, where I received a Bachelor of Science degree in family and community services. Currently, I am working full-time at a shelter for women and children, taking graduate courses at the University of Phoenix - West Michigan Campus, and taking premedical courses at Grand Rapids Community College to prepare for the MCAT.  My goal is to become a physician and open a health clinic for women and children.