What does it really mean to be bold in the pursuit of knowledge? For Tanisha Kelly Garrett, a Master of Applied Data Science student at U-M and a graduate certificate student in Innovation and Entrepreneurship, it comes down to embracing the unknown and questioning what’s possible.
Tanisha’s journey with CFE began in a unique way. “I was introduced to CFE while I was a Ross + Impact Applebaum Fellow.” That initial connection turned into a launchpad for exploring what it means to have an entrepreneurial mindset beyond starting a business.
“I was bold in the pursuit of knowledge, never fearing to follow truth or reason to whatever results they led.”
That Thomas Jefferson quote, Tanisha says, “really captures” her way of thinking. From her early years at a specialized Tech and Business school, her approach was to “look at problems from new angles, and to not be afraid to explore unconventional solutions.”
One experience set her path in motion: the Global Trade Mission hosted by Wayne RESA. The challenge? Find ways to improve technologies that conserve energy across the globe.
“That experience sparked something in me that carried well into adulthood. It showed me how creativity, strategy, and innovation could come together to solve real-world problems. It was the first time I realized that entrepreneurship isn’t just about starting a business; there’s a lot more creativity behind it. It’s really about how you approach challenges and how you create value in the world.”
Bringing Ideas to Life at CFE
Jump forward to grad school, and Tanisha is still pushing boundaries.
“Through ENTR 500: An Introduction to Innovation: Tools for Career Success, I uploaded my first pitch in the 10,000 Pitches competition for a health analytics platform that integrates data from wearable devices and aimed at helping doctors monitor patients in real time.”
What started as “a rough idea” she worked on with classmates became real, thanks to “assignments, feedback, and conversations in CFE.” The result? The idea grew into RESA / RHESA (Real time (Health and) Endocrine Systems Analytics).
This year, Tanisha is energized by the chance to use her put her entrepreneurial education to real-world use. “I want to see how my ideas evolve, get real user feedback, maybe partner with researchers, and grow the project.”
Advice for Future Innovators
Tanisha’s advice for current and future CFE students: “Jump in early, don’t wait. You’ll learn so much just by trying.”
She shouts out her current ENTR professor, Professor Aaron Crumm, saying he “pushes you to think deeply, but also encourages grad students to pursue personal or research projects.”
She also encourages students to make the most of their time at the University of Michigan. “Take advantage of the amazing network and learning opportunities.”
What’s Next?
When it comes to her own future, Tanisha’s vision is as ambitious as it is rooted in impact. “I plan to continue working in innovative health tech focused on women’s health and communities underrepresented in tech, science, and research. I want to build tools, participate in research, and help close gaps in access and outcomes.”
For Tanisha, the entrepreneurial journey is a series of open doors: one challenge at a time, one idea building on another. There’s no template for creating positive change. If you’re fueled by questions and purpose, you’re already on your way.
Curious where your bold ideas might take you? Explore CFE’s courses and programs and take the first step, just like Tanisha did. Your journey towards innovation and impact starts now.