Fredrick Douglas once said, “if there is no struggle, there is no progress”. Historically Black Colleges and Universities is evidence that black people have overcome years of struggle. HBCUs were designed to educate African Americans, in fact most HBCUs were founded and built by uneducated slaves. HBCUs have educated black people and other races for almost two centuries. They gradually begin to help students from all races and low-income families further their education. They have helped improved the black community. Historically Black Colleges are vital to African Americans because they provide emotional and educational support, intimate communication, and stability after graduation.
HBCUs have been known to give students a chance at success. An Average HBCU usually has lower requirements of entry for students who may perform on a higher academic level as others. The ACT score requirement for an HBCU is between a 16 and an 18, while PWIs search for and accept students with an ACT score of 20 and above(Grove, 1). Students who face obstacles like learning disabilities, test anxiety and other challenges that may affect test scores are more likely to receive an education from an HBCU. Anyone can find their place at and HBCU despite race, social class or disability. Along with giving students a chance, HBCUs have professors that create bonds and connections with their students.
In a survey of students at Alabama State University, I found that students developed connections and relationships with their professors and the staff. Having professors and tutors that want to see their students thrive is essential to growth and development of the student over the four years. Professors provide the skills needed in life as well as relating back to real life situations. Not only do connect with students they make the learning environment exciting. My experience has taught me that professors at an HBCU go above and beyond to better prepare their students for what is to come after graduation. Strong emotional support is also available from professors, counselors, and even the campus security. After graduation these bonds and relationship remain, and provide the students with references for post-graduation.
According to “Positive News for HBCUs” 51 percent of the students that graduate from an HBCU are financially stable after graduation and are thriving in their careers (New, 2). Life after graduation is a critical time and it is important that students are prepared for the future. HBCU not only provide you with education, they also focus on things like pride, confidence, time management and positive attitude which are all things needed for post-graduation. A survey done at Alabama State University has shown that people that graduated from HBCUs are having great success in their careers.
In conclusion HBCUs are beneficial to the community. HBCUs first provided African Americans with education: over time they have helped students of all race and ethnicity become successful in life. They have had a positive effect on the black community by creating lifelong brotherhood and sisterhood fraternities and sororities. Professors provide the assistance needed to be successful pre-graduation and post-graduation. Students that attend HBCUs are more likely to be successful in their careers. Over all HBCUs has benefited student by providing education and emotional support , unforgettable bonds, and strong stability post- graduation.
