I heard it all of the time my freshman year, either you’ll love Tuskegee or you’ll hate it. I know for a fact that I absolutely fell in love with Tuskegee. Even though I never got the chance to experience the old Tuskegee University, I have been trying to make the best out of this newer one.

For the incoming freshmen, I encourage all of you to go for every opportunity that is out there and that interests you. Tuskegee allows you to embrace your suit and tie side along with your afrocentric side. If you fit in between, that’s fine too! In essence, this is the place that you can truly be yourself. This new Tuskegee is filled with autonomous workers, and brilliant thinkers. The yard is becoming more of a familiar hangout again instead of it being considered a no man’s land.

The cafeteria is more of a social gathering. On some days there is music, and yes, students actually get up and dance! There is this level of security and comfort at Tuskegee. Similar to how it would feel to be back at home. You can go to every school event, or stay locked up in your room all day but I assure you Tuskegee is what you make it.

So don’t be afraid to sit with someone who you barely know, or to engage in conversation with a student who seems a little different. It is all about the bigger picture, and it is something that is bigger than you and me. We make Tuskegee what it is, and I hope new students embrace this new chapter in their lives. I know I did.