How Resilience, Music, and Support from EMU’s NEXT Scholars Program Shape an Aspiring Educator’s Journey

By Melissa Thrasher

Eastern Michigan University student Antonio Byrd has turned personal challenges into a story of resilience and hope, using music as a healing tool and a pathway to his dream of becoming a transformative educator. As a participant in EMU’s NEXT Scholars program, Byrd has found a supportive community that celebrates his authentic self and fuels his ambition to inspire others in the classroom.

Raised by a devoted single mother in Oak Park, Michigan, Byrd began grappling with anxiety and paranoia tied to body image at nine years old. However, music became his outlet during his teenage years.

“I grew up listening to pop, rap, and R&B,” said Byrd. “At 14, I started learning to produce pop and dance music. By 17, I fell in love with writing rap lyrics because it allowed me to express my emotions freely.”

However, Byrd’s newfound passion was tested by the loss of his mother. “This was the most traumatic event of my life that left me lost and broken,” said Byrd. Despite this profound loss, Byrd turned to music as a source of strength, channeling his grief and struggles into art.

Today, Byrd is not only thriving personally but also advocating for mental health awareness, encouraging others to embrace self-expression as a path to healing. “I’m proud of myself for taking lessons from everything I’ve experienced thus far,” he said.

The future is bright for Byrd
As a NEXT Scholar at EMU, Byrd has found more than a program—he’s discovered a network that nurtures his growth as an aspiring educator. The NEXT Scholars program supports education majors from historically underrepresented communities, fostering a sense of belonging and equipping participants to become leaders in their fields.

“I’ve found a community that supports me and my identity and where I want to go professionally,” said Byrd, who’s been involved in the program since his sophomore year.

Looking ahead, Byrd remains committed to breaking barriers and helping others find their voices. His advice to fellow students facing similar struggles: “Don’t allow society or comparisons to dictate how you feel about yourself. As long as you prioritize your mental and physical health, you win.”

Resources for mental health support at EMU
Resources like Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) are available for students at Eastern dealing with mental health challenges. CAPS is dedicated to addressing the mental health needs of students. CAPS staff provides free, confidential counseling using a short-term model.  They also offer psychiatry appointments for medication and insurance or payment is required. For more information, visit the webpage.