Science and psychology are two career pathways that involve unlocking mysteries. Both are growing fields with the power to make a positive difference for individuals and the world as a whole. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the field of psychology is expanding quickly with 19% job growth expected for substance abuse, behavioral and mental health counselors projected by 2033. On the science side, there are endless possibilities. The number of STEM jobs is growing twice as fast as non-STEM careers with a projected 11.2 million positions available in 2030. Meet Bryianna and Markiese, two DBG grads on a journey toward these exciting fields.
Bryianna Morris: A Budding Neuroscientist
Bryianna Morris has always been fascinated with people and their innerworkings.
“I want to understand how the brain works and operates,” she says.
Her growing curiosity about the human body and brain has driven her toward a career in neuroscience. This passion for science combined with her desire to help others has shaped her unique path forward. Bryianna joined DBG from grades 6-9 before returning as a senior at Martin Luther King High School. She found herself drawn to helping others, an interest that blossomed thanks to a variety of opportunities.
She says the most impactful experience she had at DBG was her paid B3 (Books Before Boxing) program internship where she worked with elementary students to help improve their reading skills. Supporting young learners further showed her the importance of kindness and helping others.
“These are good people to be around” Bryianna says, sharing how being in the environment at DBG helped her focus on her goals and surround herself with positivity.
Outside of DBG, Bryianna is also an active member of AKAteens, a mentor sorority program for high school women focused on leadership, academic achievement and community service. Through monthly projects, she built on her passion for service and giving back. Inspired by her experience, Bryianna says she is looking forward to rushing a sorority in college and continuing to make a positive impact.
Looking to the future, she plans to attend Alabama A&M University to study biology, with a focus on neuroscience. She will find several of her DBG peers and former grads on campus to provide guidance and support. That’s part of the magic of our DBG network. With a heart for service and a mind for science, Briyanna is excited to continue her journey and make a difference.
Markiese Williams: Drumming up a Future in Psychology
Markiese Williams joined DBG as a junior, and in just one year he says he has grown and experienced a remarkable transformation. One of the first things he says grabbed his attention was DBG’s music program. He chose to focus on learning to play the drums. And although he says it was tough at first, he worked hard and continued to practice.
“Over time, I got better, I learned to use my brain and different parts of my body to keep a rhythm,” he says.
Learning the drums not only became a creative outlet for Markeise, but also taught him valuable lessons about patience, persistence, and perseverance. His perspective on his future also shifted. After experiencing a family member’s struggle with mental illness, he began thinking differently about his career path.
“It changed what I wanted to do, to now study psychology,” Markiese says.
With access to resources at DBG, he was able to dive more deeply into researching psychology and mental health, building his knowledge for the future. As graduation approaches, Markiese is looking ahead to his next chapter and hopes to attend Wayne State University to study psychology.
“DBG has made a huge difference in my life,” he reflects. “Coming here gave me structure. Without it, I’d be less driven. I’m really happy I joined.”
Congratulations to Markeise, Bryianna, and the entire DBG class of 2025. We’ll be right there with you for the next exciting chapter of your academic journeys.