For many young people, the idea of going to college is shaped by what they’re exposed to. Some grow up surrounded by relatives who attended college and can name their alma mater without hesitation. Others come from hardworking families where careers were built through the military, trades, entrepreneurship, or years of work experience. Education can still be valued in those families; the path is just different. This can determine a student’s awareness of certain colleges.
For some Black students, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are introduced early on. They grow up hearing stories from parents, grandparents, and relatives about their “illustrious” alma maters, homecomings, marching bands, and Greek life. For others, HBCUs are barely mentioned because no one in their immediate circle attended one. It becomes difficult to consider an option that was never introduced.
That is where HBCU Week comes in…