In a world where college choice can shape not only a student’s career but also their identity, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) continue to stand as beacons of culture, legacy, and empowerment. But what draws students to these institutions today—beyond tradition and history? We asked real HBCU students to share why they chose their schools, and their responses reflect a deep connection to community, purpose, and pride.
From the desire to walk the same halls as Black pioneers, to seeking an environment where they are seen, heard, and celebrated, each story paints a vivid picture of what it means to attend an HBCU in this generation. Their words are not only affirmations of personal choice, but testaments to the ongoing relevance and necessity of HBCUs in the fabric of higher education.
Read more to hear it first from some students who came to tell Historically Black Since why they chose to pursue their education at an HBCU:
1. Matthew Harris
Major (Field of Study): Computer Science Major, with a Minor in Mathematics
HBCU: Tennessee State University
“Why did you choose to attend your HBCU?”
Choosing Tennessee State University wasn’t just about getting a degree. I wanted a place where I felt like I belonged and could really grow. Growing up in Mound Bayou, Mississippi, an all-Black town built on unity and community, taught me early on how important it is to be around people who understand and support you. I knew I wanted that same feeling in college.
TSU just felt right. The atmosphere and culture made it feel like home. Plus, my dad and uncles all went to TSU, so coming here meant continuing that family legacy.
Before college, I was working on a farm in the Mississippi heat to now stepping into classrooms, labs, and boardrooms at TSU. The experience of furthering my education pursuits in a positive magnitude has been a full-circle moment for me. Since arriving, I’ve stayed busy. I’ve spoken on panels alongside multi-millionaire CEOs and executives, conducted research with NASA, and landed internships at major institutions like Mastercard, Lowe’s, Fermilab, and Brookhaven National Laboratory. Currently, I’m the President of our computer science organization (ACM), helping students build their skills and prepare for careers.
I’m also involved with Collegiate 100 Black Men of America, serve as Mr. TSU Legacies, mentored freshmen through an initiative called Tiger Pal mentor, and co-founded the College Bridge Initiative to support high school students navigating the college admissions process.
Choosing TSU has been one of the best decisions I’ve made. It’s given me opportunities to lead, give back, and stay true to the values I grew up with.
2. Trinity Colbert
Major (Field of Study): Music Therapy Major
HBCU: Howard University
“Why did you choose to attend your HBCU?”
I chose Howard University because it is truly, The Mecca! A place where Black excellence isn’t just celebrated, it’s expected. As the only HBCU with a nationally established Music Therapy program, Howard offered me a unique opportunity to pursue my passion in a field that combines healing, creativity, and purpose.
Being a student in the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts is more than just an education, it’s an experience rooted in legacy, artistry, and powerful cultural expression. The culture here is truly unmatched. From the classrooms to the Yard, I’m constantly surrounded by visionaries, creatives, and changemakers who inspire me to dream bigger and walk boldly in my purpose.
3. Zykerria Parrish
Major (Field of Study): Health and Human Performance Major
HBCU: Albany State University
“Why did you choose to attend your HBCU?”
I chose my Unsinkable Institution with the intention of sticking to the plan I had set for myself. At first, I believed my time in school would be short. But as the saying goes, if you want to make God laugh, tell Him your plans. Attending Albany State University has taught me that sometimes, the best detours are divine.
My HBCU journey has been nothing short of transformative. Being a Golden Ram has given me opportunities academically, socially, financially, and culturally—opportunities I never imagined when I first arrived. Albany State has become my home away from home, the place where I’ve grown, led, and thrived. It’s where the best parts of me are still being shaped on 504 College Drive.
Choosing ASU wasn’t just about getting a degree—it was about stepping into a legacy of excellence, finding a community that uplifts its own, and creating a future that honors those who came before me. It’s about purpose, pride, and becoming everything I was meant to be.
4. Rokita T. Spencer
Major (Field of Study): Political Science Major
HBCU: Clark Atlanta University
“Why did you choose to attend your HBCU?”
I decided to attend an HBCU because I was seeking more than just a degree—I was searching for purpose, identity, and a legacy I could be proud to carry. After starting out at a predominantly white institution (PWI), I realized how vital it was for me to be in a space that reflected my culture, embraced my voice, and nurtured my vision. That’s exactly what I found at Clark Atlanta University. As a first-generation college student—and the first in my family to attend an HBCU—transferring to CAU was a life-defining decision. Within just one year, I went from feeling like an outsider to becoming the 37th SGA Junior Class President of the Class of 2027.
I was nervous about whether I’d connect with my class, since I transferred in late, but I pushed through those fears and stepped into my purpose. Now, I’m helping shift policy, not just on campus but in Atlanta as well. As a Black woman, attending an HBCU in today’s political climate—under an administration that often overlooks the needs of our communities—has never been more important. CAU has given me the tools to lead, the confidence to speak truth to power, and the community to remind me that I belong in every room I step into. At a time when Black voices, especially those of Black women, are being challenged, I’m proud to be educated in an environment that was built to affirm, empower, and prepare us to lead. My dream is to become a Congresswoman—and here, I’m not just preparing for that future. I’m living in the legacy of those who already paved the way.
5. Moriana Rankins
Major (Field of Study): Chemistry Major
HBCU: Savannah State University
“Why did you choose to attend your HBCU?”
I chose to attend Savannah State University initially for financial reasons and I knew the HOPE Scholarship would help cover my tuition, allowing me to pursue an affordable education. But what started as a practical decision quickly became something much deeper. At my HBCU, I found more than just academic opportunity; I found a community, culture, and environment that nurtured me. I’ve grown from a girl seeking direction and a sense of belonging – into a passionate and outspoken woman. Savannah State has shaped not only my academic journey but also the woman I’ve become.
6. Marques Lewis
Major (Field of Study): Mechanical Engineering Major with a Minor in Computer Science
HBCU: Tennessee State University
“Why did you choose to attend your HBCU?”
I chose to attend Tennessee State University because it felt like home before I even got here. My older cousin, Erin Edwards, went to TSU (a proud Fall ‘21 TSU alumna), and she always told me how attending an HBCU was both a privilege, and a dream come true. Her mentorship, and the way she spoke about the TSU family made me want to be part of something greater than myself. I wanted a community that understood me and pushes me to be my best.
Growing up, I knew I wanted to be in an environment where I felt seen and supported. I wanted to be surrounded by people who looked like me and shared my culture. TSU gave me that. Another big reason I chose TSU was for its strong Engineering program. As someone who loves designing and creating solutions, I wanted to be at a school that would challenge me academically, while also giving me room to lead and grow.
Since coming here, I’ve been able to do just that. I was featured as the College of Engineering Student Spotlight for being the top and most impactful student in the entire college. That was such an honor for me. I am set to graduate in December 2025, and looking back, I can say TSU has shaped me into the person I am today. Being a 6-Time Scholar with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund has opened doors I never imagined. I have received several thousands of donations in scholarship funds, leadership development, and over 15+ internship opportunities that continue to shape who I am.
\What makes my HBCU experience meaningful is how my HBCU prepared me to thrive at some of the world’s top companies. I have interned with Fortune 500 companies like DTE Energy, Honda, Kiewit Construction, SAIC, and Honeywell. Each of these experiences made me appreciate TSU even more. I realized how unique it is to have a university that not only builds your skills but also helps build confidence and pride in who you are.
Attending an HBCU is one of the best decisions I have ever made. It gave me a family, it gave me opportunities, and it gave me the foundation to go out into the world and make an impact as an engineer and leader.
7. Chyna’ A. Prince
Major (Field of Study): Bachelors of Science in Criminal Justice with a Minor in Sports Management
HBCU: Virginia State University
“Why did you choose to attend your HBCU?”
I chose to attend an HBCU because, throughout my academic journey, I often felt the pressure to be perfect—to constantly show up, excel, and carry the unspoken expectations placed upon me. While academics came naturally, what I truly longed for was a space where I could be fully seen, valued, and embraced for who I am—beyond the grades, titles, and accolades.
Virginia State University offered me exactly that. As someone born and raised in Ettrick, Virginia, choosing to attend Thee Virginia State University was deeply personal. I didn’t just attend an institution, I came home. I grew up on the hallowed grounds of 1 Hayden Drive, surrounded by the rich legacy and pride that VSU embodies. To walk those same grounds as a student was a full-circle moment, one rooted in both purpose and pride.
8. Jason Adams
Major (Field of Study): Accounting Major
HBCU: Dillard University
“Why did you choose to attend an HBCU?”
As many people know me by my real name, Jason Adams, I am also socially known by my nickname as MistrrWestwood. Attending an HBCU allowed me to creatively step into my love for marketing, while being inclined to be involved into organizations that work towards the bigger picture. When I stepped onto Dillard University’s campus, I immediately recognized the power within our size. With just about 1,300 students, we’re a close-knit HBCU without built-in buzz—so I made it my mission to create our own.
I approached outreach like launching a startup: sending hundreds of emails, refining proposals daily, and pitching nonstop to student media, community leaders, and local events.
It felt like a creative sprint—but that sprint is paying off. Thanks to our persistence, Dillard is now getting coverage in local outlets, our students are speaking on city stages, and our brand is building real momentum.
We’re not waiting for the spotlight—we built it ourselves. This proves that at a smaller HBCU like ours, bold ideas, smart strategy, and pure determination can break through and make waves.
