How I Survived My HBCU

Written By: Elainey Bass Find a way or make one

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Written By: Elainey Bass

Find a way or make one. That is the motto of the illustrious Clark Atlanta University. I chose this institution to be my home for four years; not knowing all of the wonderful experiences, inspiring people, and impactful culture would shape me to be a better individual. Attending an HBCU was a must for me, especially coming from a school where I constantly felt like I was in competition with my peers instead of using the people around me as inspiration. However, before stepping foot on my campus, I was a little nervous about what I would be experiencing and how I would navigate life as a new college student. For those that may feel this way, I have garnered up a survival list so one can get the most out of their HBCU experience. 

Tip 1: GET OUT OF YOUR ROOM! 

Of course being around hundreds of people you don’t know can be terrifying. Especially if your campus is huge, you may even feel overwhelmed. Don’t let the new environment and people hinder you from making connections! I can honestly say that I have met some of the coolest people just by walking around campus and hanging out in common areas like the library, cafe, etc. Going to class and going back to your room isn’t enough! Ask your roommate or classmate to go out with you if you don’t want to explore by yourself. 

Tip 2: Join Organizations For The RIGHT Reasons 

As college students, we always tend to worry about what makes our resume look good. This leads to individuals joining organizations, and even chartering their own, just to say that they are a part of something. Personally, I struggled with that my first two years. I wanted to be involved in everything and before I knew it, I was a part of orgs that I didn’t really have an interest in. So for my last two years, I made sure to be intentional with the things that I was giving my time to. As a Mass Media major, I made sure to immerse myself with organizations that would help me in my field later on down the line. This year, I was the Editor-In-Chief of my school’s publication, served as the Communications Director for Women of CAU, and charted an organization with my friends that caters to students interested in working in the entertainment industry. Of course if an org peaks your interest, go for it! Just don’t pull yourself in multiple directions because it “looks good” on paper. 

Tip 3: Do Your Work .. Outside Will Always Be There 

I cannot stress this enough! Going to college, you gain a newfound freedom that probably didn’t exist back home. While going out to parties and functions are cool, don’t forget the real reason why you are at school .. TO GET AN EDUCATION! No one holds your hand anymore and hounds you to do your work. It is solely up to you to stay on top of your work and responsibilities. There were definitely moments when I turned down a night of fun to get my work done and I only reaped benefits from doing this. I’m graduating with a 3.97 GPA because I knew how to balance my work and play time. 

Tip 4: Make Conversation with Faculty, Staff & Professors

The adults at your institution become your newfound family. Don’t be afraid to spark conversation with the lady making your smoothie at the cafe or the man who’s in charge of student conduct. Just from me engaging in random conversation, I have gained mentors and “school mom and dads” that never failed to look out for me in every aspect. Even with your professors, most of the time they are still working in their field. It’s important to make those connections because they may bring your name up in a room that you aren’t even in, just for opportunities. 

As my matriculation at CAU comes to a close, I can honestly say that I have learned a lot and feel more than ready for true adulthood. College is all about trial and error, and you will learn so much about yourself. Don’t take the four years for granted; it flies by quicker than you think! 

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