Sydney Kendrick

My story

I was born and raised in Florida. It wasn’t until senior year of high school that Detroit came up as an option for college. I didn’t think much of it at the time; I just knew that I wanted to attend CCS for product design. Since being here though, I have grown so much. I have come to find a deep love for people and their stories, and I place so much value on the connections I make now (which I never thought I would). Being involved on campus is honestly probably the biggest part of my story so far. I first started working on the CCS Student Activities Board and planned events; then, I joined the student government board for a while; finally, I fell into my community with the Housing staff.

I have made the most meaningful connections of my life through these programs, and they’ve shaped me for the past three years. I’ve learned to push myself, set boundaries, and listen to my mind and body, and I’ve gained so much love and empathy for the people around me. Being so far away from everything that’s familiar to me has been difficult but Detroit has really become my home away from home.

What I love most about living in Southeast Michigan

What I love most about working in Southeast Michigan

Detroit is so different from where I grew up in Florida. Looking out over the city every day or walking through the streets, you can just feel the essence of the city. It feels so creative yet strong – I think it comes from the people that live here. We are makers and do-ers. There is a proud resilience to Detroit that I can’t really explain other than you can just feel it.

My mom was born in Detroit, and I see that in her too, even though she’s in Florida. Aside from the inspiration and sense of community that comes from being here, there is just so much to do. There is art, history, and awesome restaurants here along with beautiful summer weather. Plus, you’re right by Canada! But honestly, my favorite thing is probably the grass that’s here – it is so soft and probably the most heavenly thing I will ever experience walking through. That and all the dandelions in the spring and summertime. We don’t have that in Florida, and I could spend hours with the grass and dandelions.

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