UCS senior earns full scholarship to UDM law program

STERLING HEIGHTS/SHELBY TOWNSHIP/UTICA — Antonio Noto always had a dream to have a career in law.

Noto, a Henry Ford II High School senior, has received a full scholarship to attend the University of Detroit Mercy’s Accelerated Law Scholars program.

The program puts students on track to earn a bachelor’s degree and a Juris Doctor in six years instead of seven.

Noto said he is really excited about this opportunity.

“I will leave with more than just a law degree — I will leave with a business degree that I can earn in three years,” he said in a prepared statement.

Noto said the opportunity will put him on a faster track for his career goal, which is to become a prosecuting attorney.

“I want to help people get justice for what happened to them and be able to keep bad people off the streets,” he said.

During his four years in high school, Noto was part of the Achievement Via Individualized Determination program with teacher Jamie Davis.

The program is for students who teachers recognize as having potential for rigorous coursework, but who might need additional support in a smaller, family-like environment. AVID promotes organizational and other skills while having high expectations for students regarding college and career. AVID is offered at all UCS secondary schools.

“The teacher is great. She helped us apply for scholarships and the application for colleges. She helped us complete our (Free Application for Federal Student Aid forms). She has really helped us prepare for college, even when it comes (to being) successful in the classroom, like taking notes and being organized,” he said.

Davis said in a prepared statement that Noto is a driven and determined student who has worked hard to achieve his goals.

“He is respectful and kind to everyone he meets, making him a valued member of his community. With a bright future ahead, Antonio is set to pursue a career in law, where his integrity and work ethic will undoubtedly lead him to success,” he said.

In addition to AVID, Noto is part of the Henry Ford II National Honor Society.

He said he felt good to get the UDM acceptance letter, because it is the best program for law that he has seen.

Lori Singleton, the principal at Henry Ford II High School, said she is thrilled that Noto has embraced all the opportunities available to him at the school.

“At Ford, we encourage and empower our students to strive for excellence. Our entire Ford Family is proud of all that Antonio has accomplished, and it is clear he has a bright future ahead of him. Go Falcons!”