Coretta Scott King, once said, "Struggle is a never-ending process. Freedom is never really won; you earn it and win it in every generation." The echo of Coretta Scott King's words resonates deeply with my journey, as I reflect on why I chose to attend an HBCU. Born into a family where struggle was a constant companion, I learned early on that every step forward was a hard-fought victory.

Though it was not that torrid heat, I was already worn out because the pressure on my shoulders would no longer let me continue my steps further.

Suddenly a voice erupted from somewhere “Oh! Have you started a carpentry or what?” I was greeted with derision. I couldn't speak a word in response. Yes! I was carrying a huge load of plywood and bedsheets on my shoulders. Each step was a silent vow to rise above our circumstances, despite the mocking voices that questioned my burden. They couldn't see the invisible load I carried: the hopes and dreams of my family, and the promise of a better future.

Passing by my college in such a situation somehow reflected my originality but instantly something evolved from within, "Don't be afraid to dream big, it doesn’t matter where you come from.” This was the first time we shifted to Kathmandu Valley.

Survival here was not as easy as it was there in my village. I realized this on the very first day when my father took me to the congested, and murky room to land the stuff we were carrying on our shoulders for about an hour. My mom and sister were already there muddling about in the kitchen. Oops! it was not even the kitchen just the certain part of the room where we were supposed to be cooking. I forgot what I imagined the lifestyle in here, I could not blindfold the ongoing situation in front. My tears denied falling but deep down my heart was saying “These people are worth melting for."

I would like to introduce myself as the only son of the Baral family. One might feel how archetypal way of presentation, but this has influenced my life a way too lot. My mom was married at 16, at 18 she gave birth to my sister, and at her 20 I was born. My grandparents were too old to take care of themselves, my mom said," Your grandpa had already started counting his days, there were already three daughters in our family when I heard him murmuring with the god," Have I done any sins in my past for not getting a grandson in the present.” Mom then continues, "I was pregnant and for the 1st time I begged God for a son not for me for that old voice I was listening around.”

And when I was born, it was a huge surprise to all of them, the immeasurable happiness. My grandpa died when I was six months old, I felt he was there alive just to welcome me to the new world, just to bless me with the responsibilities I would be carrying for the rest of my life.

My dad was an educated person, strong in his ideologies completely fearless but highly driven by politics. He ruined his whole career for the sake of these self-absorbed people who neither edified his standards nor valued his efforts. All they did was maneuver his ideas and avail themselves. At that very instant, we were “flogging a dead horse” trying to persuade him to give up on politics; he was a dogmatic person then. Unemployment was roaming in our family which compelled my mother to serve herself as a primary-level teacher for the pay of Rs 1000.

The arduous journey she had to fulfill the requisites of the family was sublime. Growing up in an impoverished and debased environment, I realized the value of smart revolution in my family. All that was happening in my family was a domestic struggle everyone was undoubtedly making efforts, but livelihood was ample to cater to ourselves twice a day.

The strains of life that I've witnessed from my early childhood to the shifting in Kathmandu have prepared me to equip myself with every upcoming challenge in the future.

My choice to attend an HBCU is a testament to my belief in the power of education as a tool for liberation and empowerment. HBCUs have a rich history of nurturing and fostering the growth of individuals who have faced adversities like mine. They are institutions that understand the language of resilience, where my story of perseverance is not just heard, but celebrated.

Attending an HBCU is not merely about acquiring a degree; it's about immersing myself in an environment that honors my past struggles while equipping me with the knowledge and skills to build a brighter future. It's about being part of a community that understands the significance of earning and winning freedom in every generation, as Coretta Scott King eloquently put it.

My future goals extend beyond personal success. I aspire to be a beacon of hope for my family, to break the cycle of struggle, and to pave the way for a legacy of achievement. At an HBCU, I will be surrounded by mentors and peers who share my aspirations, and who see the value in turning adversities into steppingstones for greatness.

Therefore, my choice to attend an HBCU is a deliberate one, fueled by my desire to honor the sacrifices of my ancestors and to contribute to the ongoing struggle for freedom and equality. It is here, that I will find the strength and support to meet my future goals, transforming my dreams into realities and continuing the legacy of resilience that runs through my veins.


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