Mia Coates
Brand Ambassador of HBCU Times Groups
Oprah Winfrey once said, “Surround yourself with people who are going to lift you higher.” The HBCU experience is exactly that. It is choosing a positive environment that encourages growth, inclusiveness, and comforting familiarity. HBCUs are places where minorities are the majority. They constantly remind its students and alumni of the importance of giving back to their institutions and communities. HBCUs help build confidence and invaluable career skills. They also provide a unique culture that is supportive for everyone, which encourages positive life changing impacts.
I embody the spirit of HBCUs by taking advantage of this experience. I use the keys that
I have learned from my HBCU, Winston Salem State University, to continue to connect,
motivate, and inspire individuals within my community. When given the opportunity, I also help
educate others about the importance of HBCUs and use my platform to allow others to see what makes HBCUs special and how my HBCU has personally helped mold me into the woman I am proud to be today. Furthermore, upon graduation I will utilize my University’s motto of “entering to learn and departing to serve”.
I will be sure to give back to my university to ensure that I am doing my part in helping it continue to prosper. I will also encourage others to do the same. Oprah Winfrey’s quote defines what makes HBCUs special. They prove that surrounding yourself with people who will uplift you is a personal goal and a community goal. They verify that through the support of one another, HBCUs can continue to make large contributions in making the changes we need in the world. They validate the fact that alone we are powerful, but together we are unstoppable. The environment, culture, and communities HBCUs create are the reason why HBCUs will forever be vital.