Being an incoming college freshmen can be quite the transition. From moving out of your parents house and being on your own for the first time, to having full responsibility for how you do in school. There's no one there to wake you up every morning with breakfast, there's no one there to get on you about doing your homework. This is completely all you. Now this isn't an article to talk about or dumb down any other institutions, but simply to uplift and inform about the true HBCU experience. I am here to pop all bubbles of stereotypes and to hopefully provide some sense of understanding.

For some, attending an HBCU may be nerve-wracking simply because of the things you have heard. People say the education isn't the same, the environment is different, the food won't be that good, you won't be safe, ect. And though we are all entitled to our opinions, you really can't make a solid judgement unless you've experienced it. And I can honestly say your college experience, just like your life, is truly what you make it.

Going to an HBCU wasn't my first option. In fact, I sort of fell into it. I had no other choices really and deadlines had long passed. I ended up in a summer program and found myself fully enrolled at Morgan State University. After my first year there, I knew life had taken me down the right path. I have encountered some of the most caring professors and advisors. I have a solid group of friends, most of which I met during my matriculation, and I'm on the road to graduating next May. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time spent but it has certainly had its struggles. From dealing with financial aid officials, to my schedule being dropped for no reason, I've learned you have to have an infinite amount of patience. I have also learned that HBCUs aren't the only institutions with these issues. From conversations with other friends and just scoping out social media, you'll see that every school has its bag of problems. However it is you who decides how much power they will have over your overall experience.

There was once a time when I said I was going to transfer. After two years I would leave and attend another school. Clearly that didn't happen. I decided to give my school a chance and really got into the program. I am a journalism major and I can say Morgan State's School of Global Journalism and Communication has given me everything I need to succeed. I have been challenged in every way possible while still making lifelong connections. I made the conscious decision to have a great college experience. I got rid of dead weight, shifted my perspective, and got serious about my life. It's all about what you make it.

So with all that being said, HBCU's are really no different than any other institutions and if someone told you otherwise they lied! Every school has their own vibe, own system, own lifestyle. Just be sure to choose the one that connects most with you. Good luck to everyone and have a prosperous school year!

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