As a youngster, people thought that my future would be bleak because of the odds stacked up against me. I was the product of a teen pregnancy. By the grace of God, my grandmother came and rescued me from New York and brought me to North Carolina.

While growing up in North Carolina, I had one special cousin that would attend the annual homecoming at Fayetteville State University.  He would always make sure he would take me along with him. He, like myself, was birthed into a similar situation and my grandmother rescued him as well.

Through him, I saw a different world with endless possibilities.  A seed was planted. I knew from a little boy that I would attend college at Fayetteville State University.

 

 I walked onto the campus of Fayetteville State University eager to explore the “college scene.” I had aspirations of graduating and being some type of professional. My path was cleared and forged by the faculty and staff of Fayetteville State University.

I spent my first year meandering around. I had decent grades but, was not serious about my career path. An African-American professor talked to me and said: “You need to do more than what you are doing.” From that day on, my life would change.

He began to meet with me weekly and discuss my future and the paths I should take. This required me to change my whole way of thinking.

I was a little resistant but, he was persistent. Other faculty members would also commit to helping me become a stellar student. The former chair of the music department offered me lessons at his home to supplement and address my education.

Even though I didn’t have him as a teacher, he would take the time to invest in me. This was something that I didn’t see walking in the door at Fayetteville State University.  This is something that is unique at an HBCU. Professors invest in students and want them to succeed.  They spend their time, money, and address all aspect of life, going beyond the classroom.

 

HBCU’s are essential in the lives of African Americans, and I am so thankful that I attended Fayetteville State University. I was able to receive the refinement needed to be successful in my field without having the initial qualifiers.

I have so many connections from the University that I stay in contact with still today.  I am a proud product of FSU. Bronco Pride!!!

Read another #HBCUFriday Grad Jamal Featherstone story: “#HBCUFriday: Business mogul”

If you are interested in become our next #HBCUFriday contributor please send an e-mail to indigometellus@gmail.com  for more details on how you can join the movement.