Why African American Studies (AFRO)?
I chose AFRO because I grew up in a small sundown town just a short drive from the University Campus where my identity was called into question more times than a child should ever have to. My unique experiences as a biracial young woman in a small community that was rooted in bigotry and prejudice inspired me to further educate myself not only of the impact of African American history in the Americas but the broader impacts across the African Diaspora. AFRO Studies’ unique and vast discipline afforded me the ability to build an intellectual armor that bolstered my own identity while also allowing me to spread the knowledge I learned back to my community to engage in dialogue and dismantle the master narrative.
How has being an AFRO major or minor benefited you? Are you working in your field?
During my gap year I am working as a Paralegal for an Adoption and Guardianship Attorney in the local C-U community, where my knowledge regarding diverse familiar experiences in a changing world has helped me connect with clients and families as they move forwards in expanding their families. While I am currently not working in my field I aspire to be a Civil-Rights Attorney and Champion for minority populations and aid in the dismantlement of the master narrative that continues to negatively impact African Americans and Black people throughout the diaspora.
What will you remember most about your time/courses in AFRO, your favorite thing?
I will always remember the immersive and in-depth conversations that got the whole class inspired and involved making long lectures feel like minutes. I will never forget Professor McDuffie’s lectures and him jumping up and down because the class was not only participating but adding to the ever-changing dialogue regarding the Black Liberation Movement ongoing across the world.
Do you have any AFRO honors, awards, or distinctions you would like to indicate?
Highest Distinction Department Honors in African American Studies
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