HBCU Experience

Transcript

Next up, we have a military brat from Kissimmee, Florida who went from not knowing much about HBCUs to making her mark at Morgan, one of the nation’s premier HBCUs. Meet Yasmine, a junior Sociology major and Political Science minor who, inspired by Morgan’s long legacy of student activism, is making a difference on campus and being an ambassador for HBCUs here in the U.S. and while studying abroad. Take the wheel, Yasmine.

– Thanks, Desi. For me, college was never the plan. Growing up an Army brat, I planned to follow in my father’s footsteps and join the U.S. military after high school. However, that all changed when my counselor encouraged me to apply for colleges and I found Morgan State University. At first, I didn’t know what an HBCU was, nor did I understand the crucial role that HBCUs played in American history. Morgan State and its students were warriors in the fight for equal rights with student-led sit-ins in the 1950s. Morgan students have a legacy and I wanted to share in that Morgan pride. Attending an HBCU completely transformed the way I see myself. Before Morgan State, I didn’t believe I had it in me to make a difference, but since coming here, I’ve become confident in my abilities to do all that I set my heart to. Each year, it’s been my joy to host HBCU Week, an initiative to introduce high school students to HBCUs, demonstrate the college application process and my favorite part, recognizing the students’ achievements with the on-the-yard celebration. I also had support in founding students against sexual harassment and assault, one of the first student led organizations against campus violence. I am proud of that and might not have had the opportunity at any other university. Not only has my HBCU given me a great on-campus experience, I’ve also gotten the opportunity to enhance my education through studying abroad in Cuba. Now that’s my kind of vacation. There I got to meet the leaders of the Revolutionary Literacy Campaign, the group responsible for increasing literacy rates to 95% nationwide. With everything I’ve learned and the experiences I’ve had as a result of my time here at Morgan State University, I am confident in my ability to tackle the world of problem-solving with compassion and in my ability to take the initiative to grow the future and lead the world. Back to you, Desi.

That’s right, Yasmine. You are a natural leader. The love you show for my HBCU is real and undeniable. You exude passion, purpose, and pride. Sign me up. What’s that deadline to enroll again? Thanks, Yasmine.