‘You Belong Here’ Means More for Manor College Graduate

Mike Doe (Lenfest Mastery Charter HS, Philadelphia) graduates from Manor College with his Bachelor’s Degree in Sport Management.

The biggest lesson Mike Doe learned in college isn’t something found in a textbook, it’s proudly stated in bold letters across the Manor College library – You Belong Here.

“I tell this to my brothers all the time – You Belong Here,” Doe said. “You Belong Here doesn’t just mean this is the college for you, it’s a reminder that you belong here on this earth, to accomplish what you want to accomplish and do it big.”

Doe chose Manor College because of its ranking as the second-safest college in the country – a trait that allows him to feel comfortable and focus in the classroom. The institution’s “You Belong Here” motto is something that he experienced on a daily basis from everyone, including campus leadership.”

“Joe Gillespie, he takes the crown.” Doe said about Manor College’s Provost. “He knows about my hardships. He knew about getting my grades up. To this day, when he sees me, he’ll ask me, ‘Are you staying focused? Are you staying confident?’ It’s just his personality and I love that about him.”

Doe graduates from Manor College in May with his Bachelor’s Degree in Sport Management. Gillespie cited Doe’s determination and persistence as traits to admire.

“He never let obstacles stand in his way or made excuses,” Gillespie said. “He dug in and did whatever it would take to become a good student. Mike deserves to be so proud of himself. I know I am proud of him.”

Finishing college provides Doe with the stamp he needs to pursue a career as an announcer or a sports commentator.

“To finish college puts you on a standard where they look at you and say, ‘He is capable of this because he got this done,’” Doe said. “College is a blueprint for starting your career goals.”

But for Doe, the degree means more.

It’s not just the potential for higher earnings or added knowledge in the workplace, it’s the example he sets for his family.

“Graduating means I’ll be making history, and I love making history,” said Doe, who will be the first person in his family to graduate from college. “When you put your mind to it, you can do whatever you want to do. Having that degree shows my future kids that it can be done.”