Malon Lee, Class of 2016
College: University of Missouri – KC (expected graduation date, May 2021)
Degree: BA in Psychology and a BA in Liberal Studies with a minor in Spanish
Current Occupation: Assistant Track and Field Coach at UA
Want to hear more details straight from the source? Click here to view Malon’s short video!
Who or what at UA had the greatest impact on where you are today? Why?
The teachers at UA definitely had the greatest impact on me. I started at UA in 7th grade. It was like a family there.
How have you utilized the education you received (or the skills you learned) at UA?
I went into college with over 6 credits and I was able to be a part of the honors program.
How is your experience at UA impacting you now?
My experience at UA has led me to be independent and outgoing. I used to be a homebody but going to Argentina to study abroad helped me branch out.
What if you chose to attend a school other than UA? Do you think you would be in the same place?
If I had chosen to attend a school other than UA, I do not think that I would be in the position that I am in today. UA has taught me so much and has prepared me for college in a way that I don’t think I would’ve gotten from any other high school. The college readiness as well as the preparation for life after college is what sets University Academy apart from other high schools within Kansas City.
How has UA Foundation (formerly Friends of UA) impacted you and/or where you are today?
UA foundation has given me the ability to attend college without paying for anything out of pocket. My senior year of high school, I learned a lot about college such as how to apply, how to apply for scholarships, and even the different types of colleges and universities there are out there. I have received some amazing scholarships because of UA Foundation and I also have had the opportunity to complete some amazing internships at organizations such as Children’s Mercy and Mpact Physical Therapy.
What are your goals for the future and who/what has shaped them?
My goal for the future is to become a sports psychologist where I eventually will own my own practice. Being on various sports teams has helped shape this goal.
What are you doing to stay connected to UA and your fellow alums?
I am currently following UA on various platforms such as Facebook and on Instagram. I receive the monthly e-newsletters which lets us know what big things are happening at UA as well as what’s going on with all of the alumni.
What would you like to say to the donors who give to programs like study abroad, CIP, dual credit courses, etc.?
I would love to say thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you! Your donations and acts of kindness has helped so many present and former students at UA. Donors allow many students like myself to study abroad, take dual credit classes, and even receive scholarships for college.
Anything else you’d like to share to be included in the spotlight? I am currently the assistant track and field coach at University Academy. I enjoy being able to coach at my alma mater where I plan on helping athletes have fun as well as further their athletic careers.
