hbcu pride

It's a different world...

A Different World, Howard University, and Greeks strolling may be some of the first things people think about or say pertaining to HBCUs. A Different World is arguably one of the best sitcoms of the 90’s but it was America’s first look at HBCUs, Howard University is one of the most popular names when discussing HBCUs, and Greeks strolling is very entertaining and popular on social media.

We all have different things we’re looking for when deciding where to go to college. Personally I knew that I wanted to go to an HBCU. After making that decision I had to find what I wanted in an HBCU which was, costs, location, how great the journalism program was, and student life. In the end I decided to attend Central State University, located in Wilberforce, Ohio. An important thing to remember is that though HBCUs have some similarities, they do have differences, some being size, location, or being private or public institutions. It is important to know your own reasonings, and choose the best school for you. There are approximately 101 accredited HBCUs in the world!

Misunderstood culture...

Long lines in the financial aid office, bad food in the cafe, or bad housing will be some of the negative things you will hear students on Twitter complaining about when discussing their universities. Though we complain, people outside of our universities should definitely understand some of the many great things our universities have. Each university is filled with great leaders that aren’t administration. Many schools have royal courts, student government, greek organizations, and other student leadership organizations on campus. These students not only help the university with present student culture on campus, but help to create a student culture for future students.

Another great thing about HBCUs are the Black student entrepreneurs. The students at these universities are not only talented in the classroom, but outside the classroom as well. You have barbers, beauticians, make up artists, fashion designers, chefs, musicians, and that is just naming a few. These entrepreneurs are able to grow their brands, meet and learn from other entrepreneurs, and sell their products, while obtaining their degrees in their respected fields.

College is a time to experience things that you couldn’t before, and learn things you didn’t know before. You go off and meet people from different places, you no longer live with your family, and gain true independence. Outside of the physical experiences, you gain a lot of knowledge. When I say knowledge I’m not talking about things you learn in Psych 101 or First Year Seminar, I’m talking about things that only being in a new place can teach you.

While at an HBCU you will not only learn more about yourself, but how the world around you works. By standing in those long lines for financial aid, you learn patience, and how to communicate with others in the professional world. When working in group projects you learn how to problem solve and work with others.

Hard Work...

One of the most important things you will learn is hard work. I’m not a history teacher but as we all know since the beginning of time this world was not made for African Americans or other people of color to succeed. So after years of slavery and discrimination we were able to not only go to colleges and universities, but were able to have universities that we could call our own (since 1837). So though these universities may be different in some areas as our predominately white institutions counterparts, because of our different struggles, we learn to not let that stop us, but use it as a learning lesson to make us better - for our people, by our people.

After reading this I hope this not only makes you want to attend an HBCU, but give people outside of the HBCU community an insight of the greatness that goes on in these historic places. #HBCUPride

Remember this....

Not all HBCUs are the same.

HBCUs produce Black excellence.

HBCUs teach many life lessons.

Research HBCUs to make the best decision for yourself.

DON’T TALK DOWN ON HBCUS!!!