SOUTHFIELD, Mich. - The Cheer Team at Lawrence Technological University is built on passion, leadership, and family. From future architects and engineers to interior designers, these student-athletes balance rigorous academics with their love for cheer — all while building a tight-knit community on campus.
So lets meet the team and hear more about what drives them and their passions:
Senior | Interior Design | Captain
Kiera began cheering at age 10 and brought that passion with her to LTU, where she chose to attend for its strong interior design program and proximity to home.
For Kiera, being part of the team means having a supportive group and something meaningful to be involved in outside of class. She values LTU's small class sizes, which allow her to truly connect with professors.
What does she love most? Her teammates — and the opportunity to continue the sport she loves while earning her degree.
Her advice for future Blue Devils:
"Go for it. You don't have to be perfect — the team is really supportive, and you'll learn as you go."
Senior | Interior Design (Bachelor's) & Architecture (Master's)
Emily started cheering her junior year of high school and chose LTU because it allowed her to pursue both interior design and architecture in one place.
To her, cheer means continuing something she loves while working toward her academic goals. She appreciates the smaller class sizes at LTU and the close bonds formed with teammates over the years.
Why join?
"To gain a support system on campus and continue doing something you love."
Her advice:
"Have confidence in your abilities. You don't have to be the best — just be committed and put in the effort."
Junior | Architecture
Rilie has been cheering since second grade and came to LTU for its Master of Architecture program.
She describes the team as a true community — a group of women who share the same passion and push each other to grow. On a small campus like LTU, she enjoys knowing her classmates and building relationships both inside and outside the classroom.
Her favorite part of the team?
"The laughs we have at practice no matter what time of day it is."
Her message to anyone considering trying out:
"Don't be scared of college cheer. Come to a clinic and see if LTU is the right fit for you."
Sophomore | Architecture
Emily began cheering at just four years old and chose LTU so she could pursue architecture while continuing her cheer career.
For her, being part of the team means being a family — working together, supporting one another, and building lasting friendships. She loves walking into the atrium on campus and always having someone to talk to.
Why join the team?
"You'll become very close to your teammates and truly become a family."
Her advice:
"Take a deep breath. It's not about being the best — it's about being willing to learn."
Freshman | Architecture
Veronica started cheering in middle school and was drawn to LTU for both its architecture program and the opportunity to cheer and dance after graduating early college.
She values the team environment and the focus on improving individual skills to strengthen the group as a whole. She enjoys the creativity of her architecture projects and the balance the team provides.
Her favorite part of the program is learning new skills and returning to the sport she loves after high school.
Her advice for prospective cheerleaders:
"Be yourself, give your best effort, and remember that no one is perfect — it's okay to make mistakes while learning."
Freshman | Interior Design
Ava began cheering her freshman year of high school and came to LTU for its strong interior design program — and the opportunity to be part of the cheer team.
To her, being on the team means doing what she loves alongside an amazing group of teammates. She describes the team as tight-knit and supportive.
Why join?
"It's a fun way to get involved outside of classes and create long-lasting bonds."
Her advice:
"Give it your all and most importantly, have fun!"
Freshman | Architectural Engineering
Madelyn has been cheering since she was about five years old. After stepping away during her junior and senior years of high school to focus on college-level coursework, she rediscovered her passion for cheer at LTU.
She chose LTU for its Architectural Engineering program and its close-to-home, small-campus feel. For Madelyn, being part of the team has been transformative — helping her build friendships, rediscover confidence, and push herself beyond her limits.
She credits the welcoming environment and supportive coaches for helping her regain skills after recovering from surgery.
Her message to future Blue Devils:
"Just do it! Being part of a team makes college so much easier. No matter your skill level, we're welcoming and want you to have a great experience."
At Lawrence Technological University, the Cheer Team represents more than spirit on the sidelines. It's leadership, balance, resilience, and family.
These student-athletes prove you can pursue demanding degrees in architecture, engineering, and design while continuing to do what you love.
Interested in joining? Take their collective advice:
Be confident. Be committed. Be yourself.
