Howard University Top Questions

What should every freshman at your school know before they start?

Don

There are three important things that I would tell myself as a high school senior in preparation for college. The first thing I would tell myself is that relationships are important, not just casual acquaintances, but true developed intentional friendships. The second thing I would say is that in everything you do, do it with excellence, go above and beyond the minimum requirements. And the third thing, the last and most important is to set personal standards to develop an integrity filled character that is unwavering.

Briana

If I could go back in time and give myself advice my senior year of high school, I would tell myself to live everyday like its your last. Take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way and never be afraid to face your fears head on. Life is only going to be what you make it, dare to be different, make a differance and never be afraid to show people the real you. You are smart, beautiful and talented beyond measures, believe in yourself and never allow anyone to tell you different. You don't have to search for reassurance in others, everything you need can be found in yourself and through God. Take time to appreciate the small things in life because time only lasts but so long. Stay focused on your dreams, don't allow the small things to stress you out and study hard now so you can play hard later. Most of all cherish all the time you have with your loved ones because they won't be around forever and never let anyone or anything get in the way of following YOUR dreams! If no one else tells you, I love you!

Alexandra

Take advantage of all your opportunties. Don't ever sell yourself short. Have a fun summer, but also take that time to keep your mind sharp. Do your research. Become active. Just because you're a senior now, does not give you the right to give up yet. The race is not over until it is over. Do not stop looking for scholarships. You need all the additional funds you can find. Most importantly, stay true to yourself. Don't conform to the person everyone wants you to be. Always be the amazingly incredible you!

Kiah

I would tell myself to plot my own course and stay on it and do my best in class. When you feel that you are at your lowest point, whatever you do, do not give up. Use that negative energy to further push you to achieving your goals. Beginning in elementary school, the incessant taunting and teasing and being called “nerd” and “geek” fueled the fire within me to keep learning and prove my peers wrong. My father’s words still ring in my head, “Stand out. Don’t fit in.” Defeat all odds that society may have set against you! A quote that I created not too long ago says, "Yes, you reap what you sow, but make sure you know the right time to pick your harvest." Just because you do not get something that you thought you worked hard for does not mean you did not earn it. It may just not be your time to receive it. I am thankful for my drive, my relationships, and most of all, my faith in God. After my first year in college, I am living proof that hard work does pay great dividends.

Searnda

If I had the chance to go back, I would encourage myself to Step out on faith and don't stop the process. My transition was a boring experience because I was afraid of going after my dreams. I doubted every step it took to get me to where I always dreamed of being. If I had the opportunity, I would tell myself, "the only way to achieve my dreams is to attack fear head on. And once you attack your fear, the path way to your dreams becomes clear. Nothing else can stop you, if you only take that leap of faith and not doubt the process once you've stepped out".

Alyssa

i would have told myself to take the application process more seriously and apply early. I would also have told myself to get a better ACT score and AP exam score. These are things i regret because I have to watch my parents struggle to pay for my tution. I would tell myself that "Yes you are smart, and hard working but havig an ego with no motive is useless." Now that I'm college I my last advice for myself would be "BE YOURSELF". There's nothing wrong with change however, do it for the better. Do it for your growth, success, an empowerment. But do not do it for anyone else. The crowd doesn't live you, you have to live for the crowd.

Chanel

If I could go back in time I would tell myself to quit procrastination and take charge. I was too timid coming into college and the environment was very competitive. I would get into the habit of putting in all or nothing because students give their work their all. Everyone is trying to get ahead and get a guaranteed source of income once they come out. I would have did more research on what major I wanted to pursue so that I would not be indecisive and back and forth. I would tell myself to be more open to networking and making use of relationships with people I meet. Later on down the line those are the same people I need to advance.

Oneil

Oneil, there are a few things you need to know before you go away and start your new journey through college. The summer after you graduate from Central should be a very productive summer for you. You need to try and figure out a few things before you leave. Your biggest challenge will be paying for everything that you need while in college, so you need to find some way to make money to have while you are away. You also need to apply for as many scholarships as possible so that this will not be something you have to worry about once you get there. When the money situation is taken care of everything else will pretty much fall into place. You know how to work hard and get good grades, you have been doing all these years, so continue to do so and do your best to not fall behind. There will be a lot of things that you want to do and without the grades you will not be able to do many of them. You know where you want to get to in life and only you can make that happen with hard work and dedication.

Lucretia

If I could go back in time to talk to myself as a high school senior and talk about what I now know about college. I would tell myself that playtime is over. For the first time as a senior in high school realized that my future would be hard. I spent freshman, sophomore and half of junior year goofing around and not really paying attention to my studies. I wasted a lot of money and didn't plan or think that I was going to get into college. As a senior I grew aware of the hole I dug for myself. I would tell my former self that times will get harder and I have to be more responsible to ensure that my future will be better and that I am able to get a better education for myself. I would also tell myself this quote that has helped me decide to go back to school: “Sometimes you have to forget how you feel and remember what you deserve". This quote helps me stay focused. It helps me to believe in myself and that I can be somebody. I am in control of my future.

Miceala

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself to be cultivated. Due to my upbringing I was ignorant to the various ways of thinking and beliefs others acquired. I did not allow myself to open up to different cultures and form the bond with others that would prepare me for college. Before I embarked on my journey to Howard University I did not understand the importance of enlightning myself with the world around me. The best gift someone could give themself in my opinion is the gift of knowing. Going back in time, I would definitely teach myself how to be a well-rounded young lady in order to prosper in my next educational venture known as college. The transition to Howard University would have been much easier if I would have known how to present myself in certain situations and I was informed about the differences in various cultures.

Stanley

I would say stop trying to understand yourself. Throughout my life, I’ve been on a never ending journey to find myself. I hated my thoughts; they poured out of me like running water fighting to get out of a faucet. I wished I could just turn off the water works and live like any other human. But my mind is so complex; it doesn’t allow me to stop thinking. And now that I’ve come to understand more about life and the human mind, the more time I spend “trying to comprehend my thoughts,” the more time I lose that’s made for me to embrace life. Thoughts stop me from becoming vulnerable every moment I was focus on completing myself. Well I’m 19 and I’m still loading. I would like to venture to my high school self and say live for the today and where ever you are and let the next day grow out of the experiences that are set out for you. That way, you can turn on the faucet and know that this cold beginning will turn into a warm forever that allows me to fulfill the practice of life unconsciously conscious.

Jeovane

The biggest piece of advice that I would give to my high school test would be to take the ACT. The number of missed opportunities that could have been avoided had I taken this test are countless. So just suck it up and take it. Oh and that semester you took off of math senior year...not a good idea. Calculus in college is a killer. So don't be lazy get everything you can out of high school. Oh and look for scholarships and start early. Looking back now there are so many scholarships you could've recieved that you've missed out on. Other than that enjoy it for everything its worth.

Faith

I would tell myself to focus more on school and be sure that what i say i want to do when i grow up is what i actually want to do. Also to be sure to know who i am and not to jump into things. I would advise myself to get more involved in campus life and find out what the campus has to offer.

Brittani

Don't rush things. Take your time, enjoy your senior year, and remember to smile. You don't even know what stress is yet.

charisse

Listen Charisse, you must always remain sober-minded to develop your brain at its full potential and in order to do your best in college. Life is short and you must seize each day and take it by force. You should make friends in college and obtain "study buddies" because two or more is better than one alone. Eat breakfast always, as this makes for easier thought processess and helps your energy level throughout the day. You will do well if you follow these simple rules Charisse. You are bound to succeed.

Tevin

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a highschool senior I would say this: " The most important thing to know before going to college is to stay true to yourself. That is the most important lesson I've learned my first year in college. There are so many paths to choose from, and so many people to listen to. Following your heart is the best option above the rest, because in the end its you that has to deal with the results. Dont be ashamed to Black, dont be ashamed to be Gay, and dont be ashamed in your dreams. As long as you keep fighting for what you believe in all things will work out for the best. Allow yourself to Love as well as be loved. Live life to the fullest without regretting a single action. If you face disappointment dont sulk in sadness. Get back up and keep moving!"

Jackie

Get your high school diploma, not your GED. Don't get pregnant. Don't move to a rainy state.

Tami

In the end, everything will work out. Being stressed out and upset is somewhat useless, because eventually the issues will be solved and life will be good again. Don't worry about this person or that, or cry over one bad grade amidst so many others. You only have one life to live, so it's important to do well and enjoy it, too. Be happy, help others be happy, and don't let life get you down.

Dolce

College is a lot harder than high shcool and you need to really perfect your time management, learn how to prioritize, and learn how to study correctly. College gives you a lot of opportunities to learn about yourself.

Sclebria

Appreciate everything you have while you still have it.

Morgan

As a young man about to enter into a four year course encompassing academics, new surroundings, and late night study sessions I would highly suggest that you get your mind and body prepared for a unique journey. Throughout high school we both know that you’ve had some days where you didn’t have to sacrifice your time or your rest to achieve a certain outcome- essentially the majority of the minor obstacles that were placed before you were a piece of cake. Although before you venture off, I would like to leave you with my 3 F’s to Success: familiarize, focus, & finish. Soon as you arrive on campus make sure that you get acquainted with the facilities, resources, and surrounding area because you don’t need any excuses to not know where to go and study. Secondly, if college students across the country have one thing in common it is their liability to distractions, therefore always be focused on what you need to accomplish. Lastly, make sure that you always finish what you start! Whether that is a small class project or a final exam before graduation, finishing strong is what will take you to the next level.

Ashley

I would tell myself to increase my study habits and to really sit down and learn stuff. Also not to take the easy way out of things. Lastly, to remain focus, save money, and learn more than what is asked.

Lauren-Nikai

Knowing yourself is one of the most important things in life. Granted, self changes, but at the same time, you have to understand who you are, what you stand for, and love that. Howard can be intimidating, and if you don't know and love yourself first, no one else will. You have to be comfortable in your own skin and always walk with your head held high, because when you loose that, anything can happen. You never want people to take advantage of your strengths, nor do you ever want to be out-shined by people when you know you are clearly the best at what you do. If you don't know what it is you do, its cool, college is that time to find that, but just stick to your morals and values and don't ever let that go.

Kandice

If I were able to go back and talk to myself as a High School senior, I would probably say, "Don't doubt yourself. It's ok that you aren't 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} positive what you want to do with your life. College is a time for experimenting and growing--you'll figure it out soon enough. Don't let other people make you feel inferior about yourself, your grades, or your looks. A college campus is a wide-open space with many people from different walks of life, different perspectives, and different dreams. Just because one group of people don't quite fit you, doesn't mean that you won't find an amazing group of friends. Most importantly, keep your grades up and work hard. Don't be meek; if a professor gives you a grade that you disagree with, don't just take it lying down. Go see him! Discuss the grade and figure out what you can do differently. Overall, don't sweat the small stuff. College is meant to be one of the best times of your (our) life, so enjoy it immensely!! Get out there and explore new things and new people. Good luck.

Kisa

High school is preparing you for one of the crucial parts of life: college. When going into college continue to have an open mind and take advantage of all the diverse people you will come in contact with. There are so many different worlds outside of you own. Therefore, learn to network so that you can be introduced to more opportunities and experiences in life. In addition, continue to not procrastinate and study for cyour classes every night.

LaSalle

My advice would be to develop a habit of scheduling your daily activities. This task is done for you in most high schools, but once you are off to college that responsibility will fall back to you. All of your TV time will have to reallocated to study time, you will have to go to bed at a reasonable hour, so you can get up at a reasonable hour, it is kind of like a job. You will need to read and study everday, if only for an hour or 2(wheter there is homework or not), this will ensure that you do not fall behind in classes, and if you need help, you can get it in a timely manner. This would be my advice. Avoid peer pressure as best you can!

Vanessa

If I could go back in time, I would tell myself to apply to more schools first of all for more flexibility. Upon making the transition to college, I would remind myself to choose somewhere that's not too far from home. If there are ever any family emergencies, it wouldn't be so much of an expense and problem to travel back home. To me, family is EVERYTHING, and though my education is very important, so is my family. I would also advise myself not to live off campus my first year, especially since I'm barely getting adjusted. There's a reason why they make you live in dorms-- to get to know a lot of other people and make friends. Otherwise, you will find yourself lonely often. Another piece of advice is to NEVER be afraid of seeking help. If you're struggling or need clarification, ask questions. That's what professors and teacher's assistants are there and paid for. To help you. Don't let it slide, thinking, "I'll catch on," because time flies, and then the night before the exam you'll wish you knew how to do it.

ebony

I would tell my high school self to listen to all the advice I got from everyone else.

Andre'A

If I could go to my high school self, I would tell myself to continue to be myself and to keep my focus on school.In college, especially big colleges, it is very easy to lose yourself. When you go to college, you come into contact with all types of people and most of these people do not know you. This makes it easy to become anyone that you want to be, because everyone wants to fit in; they are willing to give up there individually to be someone they think others will accept. I would remind myself that the purpose of college is not to lose yourself, but to prepare yourself for the rest of your life. In addition, staying focused on school can become a challenge. Being in a new place is always exciting and there are so many distractions that can take your mind off of school and you can forget the real reason you came to college in the first place. There is no one there to remind you to go to class or tell you what to do in your free time, so I would tell myself to remember what the main goal is.

Rashida

You are about to approach a milestone in your life that many people can not attest to for many reasons, money is one of the primary reasons. Let this not be your testimony. Despite your parents being unable to fully fund your education because your twin brother Rashad is also attending college, you must use the resources available to you and apply for as many scholarships and grants as possible. By the end of the school year, if (and only if) the total amount of money you’ve obtained from scholarships and grants does not cover the total cost of your education, then you are permitted to apply for student loans to cover the remaining expenses. Listen to your father and apply for at least 100 scholarships. Look at the twins from Dallas, Texas who have accumulated over $1.5 million each in scholarships. After they cover all of their educational expenses for 4 years, they have more than $500,000 left for themselves. Do you want that to be your testimony? Begin researching and applying. Good luck!

Candyce

Going back in time to talk to the senior Candyce, I would tell her that college is better than high school; the bullying will subdue and you will have more friends than you can call. It is harder but staying in the books will help you pass every class. Interacting with different groups and people will help you overcome and insecurity you have since high school. The teachers are always there for you to ask questions. Various study groups will ensure that you know the information for the class and not leave you to your own understanding. College is an adventurous place to meet new people and to have fun, but to stay in your books. You will come out of the box you put yourself in and people are more open and understanding than high school. You are surrounded by mature individuals that have the same goals set and that is to finish college and achieve their goals. There are plenty of scholarships out there that will help you pay for college. Enjoy yourself in college.

Nina

Knowing what I know now as a college junior, If I could give advice to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself that school always comes first and not to forget it. All through out high school I worked about 35-40 hours a week to help support my family. I didn't get to have much fun at all. I wanted to make up for that when I got to college. In my freshman year, I wasn't as focused on my academics as I should have been. As a result, I was not happy with my grades. It took me second semester of freshman year and all of my sophomore year to raise my GPA. Because of my hard work, I was able to raise my GPA to a 3.34. I wish I could remind myself, as a high shool senior the importance of the balance between work and play. Because if I would have kept that fact in mind, I would defintely have a even higher cummulative GPA than I do now.

Aubrey

“Dear Admissions, I think (name) will excel at your school because of the exceptional attributes (s)he exhibits. Sincerely, Teacher” How would you feel if this was the recommendation sent to your dream school? Recommendations like the one above come from teachers who know nothing about their students. Even the brightest students make the silly mistake of asking teachers who do not know them to write their recommendations. But what do you do if none of your teachers know you? Sometimes you need qualified persons to give your average application an extra push to knock admissions off their feet. In the eyes of University of Pittsburgh’s admissions committee, I was a mere commodity. I had the same flavors that every prospective engineering student had on their plate – 3.8 GPA, 1770 SAT, and various volunteer and work experiences – but they were looking for seasonings that would take their taste buds for a ride. A superior recommendation could have satisfied their appetite, but I forgot to network for college. Consequently, my dream engineering program put me on their waiting list. If I could start over, I would make sure every person I encountered knew more than just my name.

Nia

I would tell myself to get out there more and become more active. I did what I needed to do academic wise. However, I wasn't going to enough school activities or joining any clubs. Doing this is very important at my school because you'll never get the true Howard experience if you don't. My school is known for giving students opportunities that other schools can't give. And I won't ever be able to go through that if I don't become active.

kleshae

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself to apply for scholarships more. I would tell myself to become more incolved in school activities and to take those AP classes that I was supposed to take. I would also tell myself that I would have saved more money by going to community college and then transferring; rather than racking up debt by transferring in-state and then to a private institution. I would also say that in-state schools are more benificial than out-of-state schools because it would be less debt.

Patrick

Man you need to come prepared. There are some things missing within your knowledge. Go to the library constantly for all your work. There will be papers that will test your knowledge, and you will not have everything in your brain for these papers. Apply for more scholarships and look fo a job. Also, work well with fellow co-workers. They are there to help you, and do not take them for granted. Be ready for some vile professors who will test you in every aspect, but do not worry. You have what it takes to get through their classes. You must know that everyone is not your friend. Some people are looking out for themselves, but that doesn't mean everyone is that selfish. You will find good friends so don't go off and do something stupid to lose them. Some bad things will happen to you, but don't let them get you down. You are stronger than any problem that comes your way. Also watch out for a the icy streets. You will fall down if you are not careful.

Cynthia

I would surely tell myself that searching for scholarships early is the key to winning the most money. Other than searching for scholarships and financial aid sooner I would just tell myself that college is surely one of the best times that I will experience in my life.

Naomi

I have wished many nights for the ability to travel back in time. I have imagined that I would tell my younger self of the many lessons I have learned and the many for which to prepare myself. This question then, is one that stalks me at every turn in my life. Nonetheless, the single most important advice that I can give myself is to push myself. I would advise the younger me to do what Eleanor Roosevelt once said before a room full of promising students, “Do one thing every day that scares you”. Once I got to college, I had learned from other not to burden myself with too many courses, not to take the most challenging teachers, and not to lose myself in the campus’ social life. I had learned this so much that I forgot the importance of doing the very things that may scare you, but that will surely help you grow. My freshman year, I focused so much on being academically prepared, that I missed out on many friendships, and social groups that would have cultivated my greatest parts. I would tell my younger self to experience even the scariest of undertakings before her.

Jennifer

The wisdom that I would pass back to my younger self is something that Mark Twain once stated: “I never let my schooling get in the way of my education.” What I take from that is that college is only the tip of the iceberg to becoming educated. In college you will only have begun to really learn how to build mastery in this world. College is a building block and a great foundation but it is just one of the summits of the mountain of knowledge to be gained. What you put into your studies is what you get out of it. Do not ever feel beneath anyone based on where they received their schooling. It’s entirely in your hands to take responsibility and to learn to go above and beyond your assigned tasks. In the working world, you are often expected to do much more than just your job description. You may not get the feedback there that you do in college. Take the confidence you develop from acing your studies and never let that leave you as you continue to put forth that work ethnic in your working life.

Sarah

If I could go back in time and talk to my high school senior self, I would have soo much advice. First I would tell myself not to give up, that everything I do counts and that I have the ability to make a difference. As a senior, I was ready to give up on life. I let the people around me impact my life entirely too much. I would tell myself not to get caught up on the small things, to keep going and know that if I do, my life will be significantly better. I would also make sure to tell myself to work hard and get good grades, because I wasn’t aware until very recently just how important good grades are. I’m having a really hard time getting scholarships since my grades started dropping. However, if I would’ve stayed strong throughout, instead of just now feeling this incredible urge to succeed, I might have gotten amazing grades from the start, and wouldn’t have had such a hard time getting help. Lastly, I would tell myself to get a job, because nothing is more important during college than having money to pay for it!

Shanice

The day that you enter collefe life is the day that everything becomes more of a reality than it was before. Academics, involvement, and responsibility become more of your own rather than a shared expectation between yourself as well as your parents. Mistakes are going to be made and are not to be dwelled upon as they are the hands that mold you as a student. These same mistakes are the ones that you can learn from and prepare yourself for greater obstacles. The independance that you once thought you had takes on a new definition through this transition.

Chelsea

The advice that I would give myself is to stay focused, dont give and continue studying. Get more involvement by networking and participating in on-campus activities. Seek help when needed, ask questions when you dont understand something and do well.

Natasha

Many people go to school and lose their individuality as well as people going to school and being stuck in their own world for the next 2-4 years. Going to a University or College goes beyond gaining more knowledge and getting a degree; it includes becoming a better person and improving your quality of life. Everyday challenges and experiences learned in college are essential to how you will live the rest of your life. Knowing yourself is more than having a certain style or etc; it is generally known as staying confident and firm with who you are, but being open to change. I would advise myself to leave for school with an unbiased mindset and to keep that mindset until my last breath because that is what learning is all about.

ryan

You are about to have a completely new experience and you will often feel lost and confused, but don't let that deter you. Communication here is the key, so don't be afraid to bug the heck out of the college staff with questions. Often you will not be sure what to do or how to handle a certain situation. Thats perfecly fine, just be persistant until you find someone who can give you a satisfactory answer. It is important to stay organized and know deadlines. Don't wait for the last day of the deadline, but rather get everything squared away NOW, or as soon as possible. This is a time of change, opportunity, growth and hardwork. It is all very exciting, and it will not be easy to stay focussed on school. You need to be self-disciplined, and it is best to have a goal. Decide what you want from life a work hard everyday to make this a reallity. The most successful people are the most motivated. Know what career will give you the most sattisfaction, make this your goal, and never forget what you are working towards. Stay healthy and optimistic for the future.

Mobosola

When it comes to choosing a major, follow your heart. While your parents may have your best interest in mind, don't let them sway you completely. If you don't choose something you love or are passionate about, you will be miserable. So search yourself and choose wisely. When you get to college, don't stay in the comfort blanket of friends you already know. Meet as many people as you can, gain connections and experiences. If you look back and realize you missed out you are sure to regret it. It's okay to want to help people, but not when it becomes hazardous to your personal mental and spiritual health. some people need to be loved from afar. It doesn't make you a bad friend or person, it makes you wise. Don't dwell in failures and everything you do wrong, instead look at it as something you need to progress in. Mistakes are ok, you are only human. You cannot do everything by yourself! Seeking help in friends, classmates, tutors, study groups , and teachers office hours is an asset not a sign of weakness. Be active in organizations and community service, it feels good!

Tolisa

Organization is the key to success, especially in college. I wish you would've practiced organization by handing in assignments on time instead of last minute or studying 1 day or the day of for a test. Although you excelled by being on honor roll every semester, things could have been easier for you if you left procrastination behind. In college, procrastination will give you C's, D's, and F's, which will not help you in the future. B averages can be solved by extra study time, asking questions, and handing in quality work on time. Don't over do it with partying and socializing like you did as a senior. You must balance your time. There are three things you do in college: Study, party, and sleep. You can't do all three thoroughly. I know popularity was never an "obsession" for you but I must remind you to be popular for great things, such as leadership and your talents. The shyness and sensitivity that existed must go out the window or else you'll miss out on great opportunities. I love you and you will be amazing as you enter your new beginning. You're ready.

Ashley

I think that going to Howard helped me to grow up and take responibility for myself. Having to move across the country, I had to learn how not to depend on my parents for things as much. It has been very hard but the life lessons that I have learned helped me to grow and mature.

Sesleigh

Going to college teaches students independence. Going to college also teaches life lessons, and I quickly learned that the farther I got away from my parents, the more responsible I was for my actions. Clearly, my parents would not always be there to help me, and in this last semester, in times of turmoil, I have had to find my own solutions to my problems because nobody was responsible for the turnout besides me. Through every decision I make, I am affected, and my actions will shape my life after college. I’ve not only learned that holding myself accountable to my grades is necessary, but holding myself liable to my actions outside of the classroom is important. Parties and events can be fun, but it’s the way people view your behavior at parties that shapes your reputation in the long run. By going to college, I found that the most valuable characteristic I can rely on in myself is self respect. High school prepared me for college, but college is preparing me for the workforce where my reputation will make or break my career and forever alter my life.

Aujha

I am a freshman in college, although I have not been here very long I have learned a lot in the short five months that have passed. I thought I knew how to manage my time and work before I made it to college however, college was a huge eye opener. This experience has shown me that this really is the step stool to starting real life (i.e. a career, moving away from my parents e.t.c.). Granted, if I had decided not to attend college and stay in Colorado, I would have had a steady job and a place to stay however, I wouldn't have been able to get out and become more cultured and begin to prepare myself for the steps that I will be taking when I leave college.

Jessica

Being a student at Howard University first and foremost has made me a stronger person. During the first year of my college experience my mother kicked me out of the house because I'm a lesbian. My "Howard Family" has been so supportive and really helped me get back on my feet. Students, professors, employees and chaplains reached out to me with words of encouragement in my time of need. Their encouragement and support has been the most valuable thing I have gained in my entire life. Their support gave me the strength I needed to start believing in myself again. The healing process is ongoing but I know I've grown from my experience at Howard. I know that I have what it takes to keep moving onward and upward.