When searching for a college that would best fit my mindset, I was completely unsure of what I would do. I was confused because I wasn’t sure of what I wanted to major in. The only thing that I was sure about was the fact that I wanted to go to a HBCU. For those of you who don’t know, HBCU stands for Historically Black Colleges and Universities. I knew I wanted to learn from people who understood me and who would care about my well-being.
When you’re in high school, your teachers try to convince you the college is going to be way different from high school. They tell you that you won’t be sheltered and that nobody will care if you do or don’t do your work, that you will basically be another person on the street. That is not the case at an HBCU. HBCU’s are the complete opposite of all the things that your teachers tell you before you graduate. I completely benefited from coming to an HBCU because it makes me more eager to go to class and learn from my professors. Knowing that your're being taught by someone who has most likely been through the same struggles and life problems that you have just makes you feel better about going to class.
I chose to attend Mississippi Valley State University in Itta Bena, MS. This was the best decision I have ever made because it felt like I was a part of a new family. The people on this campus treat you like they have known you their entire lives. The love and passion that I have experienced since I’ve been here is unbelievable. I have yet to understand why we as black people don’t promote the greater side of ourselves. The side that has manifested schools such as MVSU or Alcorn or even Jackson State. We are so gifted with the intellectual abilities to create successful institutions of higher learning for our people in particular. At an HBCU, all history is black history. I love that about Valley; we are taught the truth about our people. I have grown so much mentally, physically, and spiritually throughout the time that I have been here and I really am looking forward to my last two years .
I am very passionate about African Americans learning about where they come from. I strongly feel that the only way that can happen is if they further their education at an HBCU. The perks of being a part of this lifestyle are endless; the people you meet, the bonds you form, and the endless organizations that you can become a part of. HBCU’s are all about brotherhood and sisterhood. The greek life on HBCU campuses is taken very seriously. They are based off loving your neighbor and helping the community grow. I believe that all high schools should be presented with a list of Historically Black Colleges and Universities as well as any other college that they are presented with. Students should know about all colleges so they can make the best decision for themselves.
