For the past few weeks, I have been trying to chart my path for the future, especially as it pertains to college. It seems a bit early, since college decisions do not come until probably March or April. However, I have gotten one acceptance letter so far that has spurred my thoughts and made my decision much harder: Howard University.Howard University is unique and appealing to me for many reasons:
- It is the only HBCU I have applied to.
- Its rich legacy and inspirational alumni (including Justice Thurgood Marshall, the namesake of my high school) makes my attendance and my experience that much more fulfilling.
- The students I have met so far that will be apart of the Class of 2015 are intelligent, friendly and open-minded, and also would be very good friends and classmates.
- Current students are very excited about the arrival of new students and about sharing the legacy and experiences of Howard University.
- I have been offered full tuition and fees
Howard University is ready and waiting for new students like me to contribute to the rich history that the institution has.
So "What's the problem?", you ask.
I have talked to many people about some of the reservations I have about Howard University, including the outdated facilities, the sometimes frustrating and under-performing administration (with financial aid, housing, etc. Read the article.) and the freshman housing experience (a.k.a. Drew Hall- Read this article, even though this is a little outdated, I have heard some of the same sentiments recently). Though there are signs that these issues might be slowly being corrected, these also might be an unwanted burden that could take away from the whole experience.
Update (1/30/11- 4:50pm): Howard University Administration approves a plan for an academic and infrastructural renewal for Howard University- Read here.
Also, what if I am accepted to somewhere like Harvard University (which I have applied to), that would give me the credibility and notoriety in my future, but not necessarily the unique and unforgettable experiences I know I will get from the first second on Howard's campus?
So, I need your opinions! Is the Real HU for MB? Comment NOW!
Well, I had a relative who went to Yale for a while. Then she transferred to Howard and she said the experiences she got there were much better just because it was more close knit. It is true that the administration is lacking but that just means you have to stay on top of everything you do. I say wait until you get your other letters, see where you got in and then make a decision.
ReplyDeleteBut I'd go with Howard.
yes
ReplyDeletehttp://www.howard.edu/newsroom/releases/2011/HowardUniversityBoardApprovesAcademicRenewalPlan.htm
ReplyDeleteHoward is changing for the better.
1st commenter has got it right...wait until you have all the info/data before you make the decision. Sounds like you've distilled Howard down to it's main points...now time to relax and wait on the others...patience, patience...
ReplyDeleteGo for the school where you think you'll have the best overall experience. If you get into Harvard and you think it would be a great place to be, then go there. But don't do it just for the name. Once you've graduated, most people don't care about the name of the school, unless they also went to the same school. It matters a whole lot more what you do while you are in college, who you meet, what experiences you have, than the name on the diploma.
ReplyDelete