For the very first time De’Aree X and his parents drove six hours from Memphis, Tennessee to Southern University. X secured a full ride scholarship in Agricultural Science with a concentration in Plant and Soil Sciences. To study plants and natural medicine to provide for his family. X has a desire to grow food and medicine in his own backyard one day. Along with revealing to African Americans the benefits of possessing a healthier lifestyle.
“I feel an uplifting feeling in the small things in life such as nature. That’s why I had to do something with plants. My grandma has a huge garden growing food for the family and so does her grandma it runs in the family. The women in my life inspire me especially so I can provide for my family. I’m doing it out of love.”
Along with being a scholar X founded “BIOMECCA” the center of growth and abundance. “The BIOMECCA is a center for physical and spiritual life through the administration of products, produce, and wisdom. We are rooted in health and righteousness, creating an atmosphere of growth,” stated X.
Being that X first time on campus was on move in day he was equipping himself for the HBCU culture. “On my way here, I was studying the school. Trying to learn as much as I could about the culture. One thing that surprised me the most was how expansive the campus was. I didn’t expect to walk fifteen minutes to go to class and that’s what I actually like about the campus.”
X plans to make an essential difference here at Southern. “I seek to reconnect all people with the essence of God within themselves, bringing them closer to their Creator, propelling their future into immediate success. All while creating their best selves and all praise is due to Allah,” voiced X. This summer De’Aree received his X becoming a part of the Nation of Islam. X aims to, “raise the consciousness of students to the level scholars who value wisdom and knowledge.”
Aside from his plans X prayed for a good roommate and he received just that. Being that his roommate is from Louisiana he introduced him to the prominent dish dirty rice.
Along with a debate with his newfound friends about a nostalgic sweet treat. Which started while conversating about a business idea of selling “freeze cups.” The dispute about the actual name is still undetermined. “People here say cold cups, dixie cups, and frozen cups I call it a freeze cup,” explained X.
Nevertheless, X has enjoyed the social interactions on campus the most. “The people I meet walking to class is a beautiful experience. I began to see how diverse the world is. Baton Rouge specifically feels a lot like home. I feel that this is the best institution to begin my journey into adulthood. God has perfect timing and reasoning for everything he does.”
Are you ready? That wasn’t loud enough! Are you really ready?! Well get ready, because Southern University’s Code Blue will be resuming in the spring semester of 2021. This Stomp ‘n’ Shake cheer team was founded by Justin Plummer, a second semester sophomore and Mathematics major from St. Louis, Missouri. The team is a flurry of rhythmic, energetic high stompers with a strong and heavy-hitting technique. You have to come with some heat to be a part of this team! The Code Blue team will be holding auditions during the first week back on campus.
In a recent interview regarding the organization Plummer explained, “ I started Code Blue because I wanted to promote diversity between different types of cheerleading styles. This would allow students at Southern to be able to try different things and do things that make them comfortable, without having to make a choice to be on Southern University’s cheerleading team. Most students, like myself, didn’t have the resources to be a part of those extensive tumbling programs, nor did our schools have the money to pay those types of coaches. I brought something that will help students progress in other areas besides tumbling. This gives those students a choice to be a Stomp ‘n’ Shake cheerleader on a collegiate level.” Danielle Hunter, Code Blue’s co-captain, is a sophomore Business Management major from Monroe, Louisiana, who can attest to that. Although her first interaction with Code Blue was hearing the booming chants and stomps of the group during a game, she’s no stranger to Stomp ‘n’ Shake after participating in it in high school. “I was elated to see something new and fresh that I could fit right along with,” Hunter recollected. “It was, single-handedly, one of the best decisions of my life. We’ve been through a lot together, and that’s why I can’t let it go. We’re a family”
Code Blue’s goal is to grow with new members each year. Danielle offered words of motivation for those who are interested: “The point is to be yourself at all times. There are no stereotypes or judgement taking place. Come with energy, humbleness, and an open attitude to new ideas. It is a journey you truly do not want to miss out on. Good luck!” If you are thinking of joining Code Blue, do not be afraid to make that leap! Remember, you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take, and trust us, this is a team you do not want to miss out on.
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Newfound Home: De’Aree X
August 30, 2022
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