Misconceptions of SU

Southern University A&M College was always my first choice at heart. I had grown up around Southern, attending homecoming, Bayou Classic, and other big-ticket events faithfully dressed in blue and gold. Frankly, I was always a Jaguar because I was in love with everything surrounding the school—the band, the family atmosphere, etcetera. Though this is true, there were many misconceptions surfacing around the school when I announced to my family, who had attended Southern, that I was applying to SU. I vividly remember one of my aunts who had attended Southern telling me, “Southern is not a good school. They’re very unorganized.” She went on to tell me to not “sell myself short” and said that if I wanted to get a good education, I was better off attending a PWI or another school.
Despite the mixed feedback, my heart and my mind were made up. I was going to earn my spots as a Jag, attend Pretty Wednesday, and partake in all of the staples of HBCU culture. However, my experience was not all sunshine and rainbows. Soon, I started to see many of the misconceptions that were told to me, come to life. Lack of organization is admittedly one of my university’s biggest downfalls. Semester after semester, I watch as long lines of students wait in financial aid lines. I have first-hand experience with different campus departments hanging up in your face when wanting to get answers about your housing or financial aid. It was really frustrating as a freshman dealing with the lack of preparation from the administration. These misconceptions were unfortunately true, and are still true today.
However, my experience was not all bad. Southern University is a great school. Not only have I realized and furthered my potential, but I find myself learning new things about life each day; how to treat others, the importance of patience, and the value of persistence. The experiences you learn at my HBCU will carry you through life. Personally, SU has given me opportunities in leadership, community service, and travel. I’ve been to New York and Atlanta, and I’m excited to see where else my experience takes me. Thanks to Southern, I’ve made many connections that I’m sure will help me succeed in my career and beyond.