Current Aggie Student Ambassador and former Orientation Student Leader, Mr. Laws is currently a student at North Carolina A&T State University pursuing a degree in Liberal Studies with a concentration in International Studies. From transferring to A&T from a pwi to becoming actively involved on campus; Mr. Laws famed “HBCU Experience” is a great read and a story with many more pages left to be filled.
Why did you choose an HBCU over a pwi?
I actually transferred from a PWI and it was the best decision of my life. My experience at a PWI allowed me to get a glimpse of both sides of the spectrum. The biggest thing that attracted me to an HBCU North Carolina A&T in particular, was the family atmosphere.
We truly live by what everyone knows as AGGIE PRIDE, and what we believe is Achieving Great Goals In Everything Producing Renowned Individuals Dedicated To Excellence!
What city are you from? Who introduced you to the greatness of HBCUs?
I’m from Charlotte, North Carolina and I was introduced to the greatness of HBCUs the first time I went to Battle of the Bands at Memorial Stadium with A&T, SCSU, and a few others.
As I said before, the family atmosphere at the football games, to social events, even in the class room, my HBCU is a LARGE family.
Which professors are leaving the most impression upon your academic and personal life? What do they do that continues to mean so much to you to this day?
If I had to choose one professor in particular (which is very difficult due to the multitude of professors that have made an impact on my life), it would have to be Dr. T. Quaye. She teaches various time periods of History, but African American History would be my favorite.
Dr. Tiffany Quaye
She doesn’t teach you what to think, but she forces you to think beyond your conventional mind. She teaches you to investigate further than what is perceived at face value.
What is the story of your “HBCU experience”?
The story of my HBCU experience: As a transfer student I simply wanted to go to A&T, get my degree and get on with my life. After my first semester my mindset changed completely and I yearned to become apart of everything that I could.
I became a leader around campus helping with incoming and prospective students. Also obtained the best GPA in my college career while remaining active.
What is your major? and Why did you choose it?
I am a Liberal Studies student with a concentration in International Studies. I chose this major because out of high school, I completed the requirements of the Bill Gates Asia Society program which was a small scale version of International Studies.
Where is the “yard” located?
Greensboro, NC. I consider the entire campus the “yard”
Where are the historical places on campus? Are there any ghost stories involving buildings or spots on campus?
The Greensboro Four Statue (where the nationwide sit-ins started during the Civil Rights Movement), The War Memorial, the entire campus is a history lesson.
No ghost stories, just a school that is DEEPLY enriched in its own History
What are the best restaurants on and near campus? Favorite dishes?
To us students, any restaurant that delivers food is the best as well as the multiple options on Summit Avenue about 5 minutes from campus.
How many “firsts” have you had at North Carolina A&T State University? What were they? (e.g. first road trip, first job interview, first love, first “F or A”, etc.)
Even as a transfer student I’ve experienced a few firsts but none that I can think of at the moment.
How are you positively active on your college campus? What about in high school?
If you could only speak two sentences to the youth coming after you what would you say?
I am proud that you have made it thus far and chosen to follow in the footsteps of generations before you because there are some that you may even know who have chosen to do otherwise. Welcome to the HBCU experience, be sure to embrace it and in being successful, instill in your heart to give back to the next group coming along because you yourself did not reach success on your OWN!
(I couldn’t speak ONLY two sentences seriously because there is so much advice and encouragement to be given, especially when associated with an HBCU)
We are glad you enjoyed the story of Mr. Laws “HBCU Experience” thus far. Just know if you have any questions regarding A&T, college life, or more you can respectfully contact him via Twitter – Facebook – or Email. Also if you attend or attended A&T feel free to tell us your story!
“My major is Psychology with a minor in African American Studies. I’ve always been a great listener and advice giver according to my friends and family.”
“I decided to come to Winston Salem State University initially because they awarded me with all the financial aid i needed and also they actually cared about the voice of freshmen.”
“The night President Barack Obama was elected will forever remain etched in my heart and being, as I felt proud to be a part of my generation, of this country, of my Black race, of history, and to be a proud Claflinite.”
“My mentor is a graduate of Fisk University and she really inspired me to attend. Also, my passion for music led me to the Jubilee Singers. I wanted to become part of a legacy and better myself so that I can help carry it along.”
“My mother also gave a recount of her time at VSU and how wonderful it was. A few days later, I received a large envelope in the mail. I had been accepted to the nation’s first public HBCU and couldn’t have been more proud to attend.”
