I have for most of my life, attended predominantly Anglo-Saxon schools; from elementary to high school. I've had to deal with being discriminated against and many other types of ignorance and prejudices. When I became ready for college and only after having a very lengthy and detailed discussion with my parents, it was decided that it would be a great change for me to attend a HBCU. I immediately started doing research and I discovered that there were several great leaders that have attended HBCUs. After visiting several HBCUs, I took it upon myself to speak with many of the staff members and students at these fine institutions. I must tell you...it was an experience that I will never forget. I felt a camaraderie and a brotherhood that, other than my family, I never knew existed. It was powerful and it changed my life. I was determined to attend a HBCU so I started applying to the schools that met my requirements.
Since attending a HBCU, my leadership skills have grown immensely. Because of these skills, I have been able to step outside of my comfort zone and I've acquired some major accomplishments in my life. For instance, I'm the Lead Bassoonist for the university's Symphonic Band. I've founded my very own tutoring services, where I tutor some of my fellow students in Mandarin Chinese as well as Music Composition. I have also founded/created the university's first and only sextet musical group; to which I compose and arrange all of the music for the group to perform. I also handpicked all the instrumentalist. Because of my musical skills, Dr. Tim Turner, the Chairperson of the Music Department, has requested that I start composing music for the Symphonic Band to perform.
Attending a HBCU has also given me opportunities that I never knew existed. I have had the chance to visit China and study there during the summer and will return at a later date to study for a year. My HBCU has shaped my life in so many ways and these skills will carry me successfully into my future endeavors.



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	God bless you and I hope that you are having a great day. I was listening to this musical tribute to Maya Angelou. It was very touching and I thought that I would share it with you. This is the link. Share it with a friend. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6KbhUa9YwaY Also, if you get a chance visit my profile and view some information about my daughter that might interest you. Tagged by Ralph White on 06/17/2014
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