MORTUARY SCIENCE

Graduated in 2022
Licensed Funeral Director, Tyus-Fields Funeral Home

Q: Why did you choose Wayne State University?

A: I chose to attend Wayne State University because the mortuary science program is well known and respected in the community. My father graduated from Wayne State’s Mortuary Science program in 1993 so I knew I would be attending a great school.

Q: What inspired you to pursue Mortuary Science?

A: I was inspired to go into the field of Mortuary science during the COVID-19 pandemic. During this time, I assisted my father at our family firm and helped grieving families with the unexpected loss of a loved one. I admired the funeral directors who worked tirelessly during the pandemic to give families the opportunity for closure and felt good knowing that by going to school and receiving a quality education I too would be able to deliver this same level of service. The moment when someone's loved one passes away is a very critical time in their life and it is during this time that a family needs kindness and support. The kindness and support that was extended to me during the loss of my grandmother is the same kind of service that I provide to those in need.

Q: Who was your most memorable Professor?

A: My most memorable professors at Wayne State University were Professor Lauren Budrow and Professor Mark Evely. I enjoyed their courses because their lectures were very informative and they delivered the material in an online platform that made it easy for me to understand and follow. I also appreciate how they were willing to help me during office hours and made themselves available to answer my questions.

Q: What was your most challenging class?

A: My most challenging course was professional review. This course was an extensive review of all the material that we learned in the mortuary science program and was intended to help us prepare and pass the national board examinations.

Q: Share some reflections about your time at Wayne State:

A: I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Wayne State University. While at Wayne State I was able to learn all that is relevant and applicable in my career. I also was able to attend internships that helped to expand my horizons and gave me networking opportunities within the funeral service industry. I also was able to hold leadership roles which helped develop my character and prepare me for future roles in the profession.

Q: In your opinion, what is one of the biggest changes that has occurred in your profession since graduating?

A: One of the biggest changes since graduating has been the rise in cremation.

Q: Share a career highlight or summary:

A: One of the highlights of my career is that every day is different. Each day when I walk into the Funeral Home I am able to support a grieving family and offer guidance to them on creating a service to honor the life and legacy of their loved one. I enjoy being able to extend a kind hand and warm smile to the families in our care.

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Since 1939, the Wayne State University Mortuary Science Program has been dedicated to educating and developing funeral service professionals who serve their communities with care and distinction.

Through traditional, online and hybrid programs, students benefit from high quality instruction and practical experiences that lay the foundation for their funeral service careers. Learn more about the application process and make plans to attend a college information meeting, held for prospective students at 6 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month.

An anchor in urban health care

The Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences is built on more than 100 years of tradition and innovation in the heart of Detroit. We have grown deep roots in our city, harnessing its powerhouse hospital systems and community service organizations as vibrant, real-world training grounds for students, with an ongoing focus on social justice in health care. And our research at all levels – from undergraduates to veteran faculty members – translates into creative solutions for healthier communities.

Wayne State University is a premier urban research institution offering approximately 350 academic programs through 13 schools and colleges to nearly 24,000 students.