So I’m passionate about bringing more of that to the black community – tools of success as opposed to tools for failure. We have so many (payday and title) loan businesses in the black community. You don’t see those in other communities. So, I want to teach people more about what to do with their money and how to be successful.
I’m most proud of coming to college in Mississippi. That was a big thing for me. My older sister was the first person in our family to complete college, but she went to school in Virginia. We’re from Maryland and Mississippi is 16 hours away. So it was a big adjustment.
My freshman year was really hard, but not because of academics. It was hard because I was in Mississippi by myself. I didn’t know anyone here. My first time coming to Mississippi was during the freshman orientation.
But being here has forced me to meet people and get involved. It wasn’t like I could go anywhere. I was always on campus. So I’ve met a lot of good friends. And their families have been very welcoming to me. A lot of professors on campus have also been really welcoming. They give you that mom-away-from-home feel. I’ve met a lot of good people.
Since being here, I have participated in Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mississippi. That has had a big impact on me because I was able to mentor a young girl, who maybe wasn’t given all the opportunities I was. I was able to open her eyes and expose her to some things that she may not have had a chance to experience. And we built a relationship. She was really like my little sister. We talked all the time. That really had an impact on me because I was able to give back to someone else. So, I’m glad I came.”
– Kyah, junior accounting major from Upper Marlboro, Maryland.
Kyah, my name is Thelma. I am from MS and now live in Mitchellville, MD. I am with the JSU DC Chapter. I enjoyed your story and would love to stay in touch with you. My email address is thelmastrong311@gmail.com. Please contact me soon. Thanks