Life as a black student (specifically at NYU) more often than not, consisted of me trying to figure out ways to succeed both academically and professionally in a space that very few people with my background existed. College is a time filled with so much uncertainty and insecurity, even if elite institutions, such as my alma mater, have become masters of creating the illusion that their students have it all figured out. This uncertainty is heightened for students of color, being that we don’t have the safety net of being fully understood and accepted by our peers & administrators. However, one thing that I have learned by going through these experiences is that you must be your own biggest advocate. If you don’t speak up for yourself it is unlikely that someone else will. And when you have the mind to finally speak up for yourself, you liberate others in the process.
Josh Ojo is a Civil Engineer with a concentration in Construction Management his goal is to become a positive shaper of my community and voice for those you have a hard time being heard.
You can connect with Josh here.