When Shanaz Munni joined our Workforce Prep Mentoring Program at Warren Mott High School in 2018, she thought she had it all figured out—she was going to be a doctor, but she really didn’t know how to make that dream a reality. Now, at 22, she’s preparing to graduate from Wayne State University with a computer science degree, two major internships, and a clear vision for her future in tech.
A Journey of Discovery
Shanaz’s drive was evident early on. Born outside the U.S., she had to learn English while adjusting to a new culture. By high school, she believed medicine was her path, but she wasn’t sure how to get there.
Her Years 1-3 (10th – 12th grade) volunteer career mentor, Jill Jones, helped her set goals and build a plan for college.
“I’m an introvert, so it was hard for me to open up,” Shanaz admitted. “But Jill was friendly and helped me understand SMART goals and create a plan to get into college.”
That plan worked. In 2021, Shanaz graduated from Warren Mott High School and started college at Michigan State University, ready to pursue a medical career.
Finding the Right Path
Once she got to college, reality set in—medicine wasn’t the right fit and neither was Michigan State.
“I realized that a career in medicine was not what I wanted,” Shanaz said. “And I transferred to Wayne State.”
She didn’t know what to do next. That’s when her Years 4-7 (continuing education) volunteer career mentor, Chris Swart, stepped in.
“Chris helped me step back and reassess,” Shanaz shared. “She asked me questions about what I actually enjoyed and what I wanted out of a career. That’s when I realized I loved technology.”
With Chris’s guidance, Shanaz switched her major to computer science. She finally felt like she was on the right path.
Chris saw her transformation firsthand.
“We are both introverts, so I shared strategies to help her build confidence,” Chris said. “She has come a long way, and I can’t wait to see what’s next for her.”
One of the biggest lessons Shanaz learned? The power of networking.
“Chris taught me to be proactive,” Shanaz said. “Now, I seek out connections to help me break into my field.”
Breaking Into the Tech Industry
That mindset paid off. In 2023, Shanaz interned at Ford Motor Company as a data analyst, gaining real-world experience. Now, she’s secured a new internship at Stellantis, where she hopes to work in software development or data analysis.
Even as she gains experience, she works part-time jobs outside her field to support herself. But she’s on the right track.
“In five years, I see myself as a software developer for websites, working for a stable company in a good position.”
Looking Back—and Ahead
As she prepares to graduate in December, Shanaz reflects on the impact of Winning Futures and her mentors. From SMART goals to scholarships (like the 2021 Cupp-Hamilton Scholarship) to mentors who truly cared, she gained more than she ever imagined.
“The program is great. You’re not losing anything—you’re gaining. You learn to network, get a mentor, and even find scholarships.”
She’s especially grateful for the mentors who stood by her and the Winning Futures staff.
“They cared about me and my future. They really helped me out and I’m very grateful.”
Chris is impressed by Shanaz and her development. “It’s been a pleasure to watch her grow. She’s focused, engaged, and ready for success.”
With her skills, determination, and experience, Shanaz is turning her dreams into reality—and proving that sometimes, the right path isn’t the one you start on, but the one you choose along the way.
Learn more about our Workforce Prep Mentoring Program or becoming a volunteer career mentor.