My decision to matriculate into Howard University was based on three things -- I was getting a free ride; I was getting away from home, and I was getting a fresh start with a new batch of peers who would (hopefully) like me more than the last.
However, it just took the duration of Freshman Week to realize that this university is special for many more reasons than the great parties and the notable people throughout history who have ambled across campus.
It took me no more than a month to feel the unity and the good vibes that were in every building and in every classroom.
I don’t have a euphoric view of my soon-to-be alma mater. I know that there are some issues that need to be recognized and remedied in the administration, the classroom and the student body.
However, despite the amount of criticism this school receives from any and everyone, the university is still rearing leaders, entrepreneurs and globetrotters by the bundle.
We are still a leading institution of higher learning, known for our scholars, research and dare I say, our festivities.
Our athletic teams may not be comparable to the Cleveland Cavaliers or the Los Angeles Lakers, but they get up for workouts and practices at 5:30 a.m., after staying up until 2:00 a.m. doing homework.
They try hard and somehow manage to keep their heads up and for the most part, maintain calm dispositions, despite how much they are ragged on.
Among our students are some of the most beautifully talented actors, musicians, dancers, artists and models.
A lot of people have unique senses of style that are worth double-takes. The people whose uniqueness is more of an eye sore than eye candy are so comfortable in their own skin, one can’t help but respect and appreciate it.
In every class is at least one intellectual who can tell you any and everything about the works of Amiri Baraka, Nikki Giovanni and Frederick Douglass.
Essentially, we are still a school made up of teachers and preachers. I know this because I’m always learning something or being sermonized by one of my peers.
Students may not be the activists of the 60s, 70s, or even the 80s and 90s, but we are dedicated to service. From soup kitchens to neighborhood clean-ups, most people are devoting some of their time to the community.
I am amazed at my peers who manage to stay on the dean’s list, participate on the executive boards of multiple organizations and perform community service activities simultaneously.
This university experience has taught me almost everything I know about juggling responsibilities, time management and seeking truth and knowledge whenever possible.
Personally, I have learned how to deal with a variety of personality types. College has brought me out of my shell. I don’t think I’ll ever be scared to get up and talk in front of people or speak my mind when something is bothering me ever again.
As I get ready to pack up my room, make post-graduation restaurant reservations for my family and friends and tie up my last few academic ends, I’ll be reflecting.
I expect to get teary-eyed when I think of all the people who I’ll miss, to laugh when I think about every outing with my girls, to grit my teeth when I think about the people who have irked me to no end and to shake my head incredulously at everything outrageous.
My heart is heavy when I admit to myself that I may never see some of the familiar faces on campus again, well, except on Facebook.
More than anything, my heart is pounding with excitement at all the wonderful things I know God has planned for me and my peers.
Saying goodbye to the life I’ve had for the last four years will be difficult, but change is a necessary part of life. If you’re not changing, you’re not growing, and therefore, you might as well be dead.
The most important thing I’m leaving this university with isn’t a degree; it’s a greater sense of self. I charge those who will come after me to strive for the same thing.
Peace and Love,
~Mercia
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