New city, new school, new friends, new life, new start.
Crossing the social, emotional and academic bridge from high school to college can be daunting, but as the first day of the fall semester looms closer, nine 2019 HBCU graduates share how to milk the undergrad years for all it’s worth.
To the class of 2023, take it from the graduates who are not new to this, but true to this.
Nathan Vinson | Florida A&M University
Embrace the experience! Attending an HBCU is truly a once-in-a-lifetime moment; between the diverse yet connected culture of our people, the history of our ancestors, and the greatness that lies in our generation, the next four years (or two #TransferStudentsMatter) will teach you about yourself, the ones that have come before you, and the importance of helping the ones that come after you.
Get involved EARLY! While you may not have many professionally developed skills, the earlier you jump in, the faster you’ll be able to develop those skills, learn from your mistakes and build you resumé!
The collegiate journey is all about exploration and the acquisition of knowledge, which includes personal AND professional growth. Sometimes our biggest blessings are the ones you don’t expect, nor ask for. And THAT’S on God’s Plan!
Xanté Wallace | Prairie View A&M University
PVAMU is the land of opportunity but opportunity only comes to those who refuse to let obstacles define their being. From organizations to pageants to open mic nights, there is so much to get involved in.
However, closed mouths don’t get fed and an idle mind is the devil’s workshop. Surround yourself with people who are not afraid to enjoy the resources of this great institution. Your nervousness and anxiety is your mind, body and soul telling you that it is time to elevate. The knowledge you missed today is the knowledge you wish you had tomorrow, so make memories, make mistakes and make successes.
Your greatest you is waiting on you to find yourself.
Mikael Aregaye | Bowie State University
Bowie’s close knit family network was the infrastructure that cradled and nurtured my potential. I went from running 100 miles a week on the track to running with a 100mm lens in the studio.
The greatest part of my education were the diverse personalities and cultures I interacted with, which will equip me for personal and professional encounters in the future.
The old Yiddish adage, “Man plans, and God laughs,” accentuates that despite our meticulous planning, the road to life is unpredictable. Keep an open mind and remain teachable. You never know what God has in store for you.
Cassidi Williams | Southern University
College is everything you make it. Southern’s eclectic traditions truly add to the excitement of being a jaguar. Attend all the Zydeco festivals and fall football games. The Dancing Dolls, who are truly iconic, radiate the atmosphere at Bayou Classic and the annual rivalry game against Jackson State.
Be kind and open to all your peers. As humans we tend to close ourselves off or feel intimidated by people who aren’t like us. In my experience, these are the same people who have opened my eyes to different world views which were extremely beneficial.
Alexandra Henry | Xavier University of Louisiana
It’s easy to get caught up in trying to build romantic or platonic relationships, but it’s essential to always know your worth. Meet people and make friends, but surround yourself with those who uplift you and help you reach your goals. Set your standards high and never settle for less.
Also, befriend your professors. They are your biggest allies and may open a world of opportunities. In addition to valuable industry insight and advice, networking with them could land you a full-time offer in the long run.
Lastly, enjoy yourself! At the end of the day, your college experience is truly what you make it. If you don’t leave your room, of course you’ll think college is boring. Make an effort and put yourself out there!
Christian Roberts | Morehouse College
Remember the three Cs: Commitment, Consciousness and Community.
Commitment centers around making an initial decision as to what you want to achieve. Whether in terms of academic excellence, relationships or spiritual growth, keep that in mind when making every decision and during every interaction.
Consciousness is essential. It’s important to always be aware of how you present yourself because this will play a huge factor in your journey at the AUC. The way you act, post, dress, and interact with others can have a great impact–positive or negative–on your college experience.
Finally, making the most at Morehouse requires understanding how important it is to have a sense of community. Embrace the brotherhood, sisterhood and diversity that surrounds you. Doing so will provide you with memories and enlightenment that will last a lifetime.
Briana Jenifer | Howard University
Be open to every opportunity that comes to you. You never know where those early connections (internships, friendships, clubs, etc.) might take you. Also, know that in college, your interests can completely change by the time you graduate. You’re going to change a lot as you learn more about yourself and who you truly are.
Remember to be your biggest advocate and speak up for yourself. This applies to friendships as well. If something bothers you, speak up. People aren’t mind readers.
Time flies so try to just enjoy the ride.
Kayla Triche | Tuskegee University
As a freshman, you will have many opportunities to join clubs and attend on and off campus events–including all the parties. As you get wrapped up in this new world of freedom, don’t forget the reason you are here. Performing academically is your number one priority.
This means attending all classes, taking notes and carving out time to study. Set the bar high so as you progress into harder classes, you have a GPA safety net.
Best said in Luke 12:48, “To whom much is given much will be required.” You will have the best four years of your life at Tuskegee, but remember the goal will always be to get the degree.
Destiny Van | Spelman College
It is typical to feel inadequate because of the many expectations Spelman holds. Take a deep breath and know that you are more than qualified for any task at hand.
Make this journey your own and enjoy it because it is hard to find any other place where you are surrounded by this many black women. Remember to make friends at Morehouse and Clark Atlanta.
Lastly, be kind, save money, never compare yourself, put yourself first and prioritize your mental health.
