Hannah Robinson
Staff Writer
Blue S.T.R.E.A.K. and Tiger Transfers and Commuters (TTC) at Jackson State University held their “What’s Tea about Thee” on Aug. 25 in the College of Science, Engineering, and Technology Building Auditorium.
The event aimed to inform freshmen and transfer students about embracing the college experience.
Jazmyn Littles, President of Blue Streak, shared practical tips on decorum and navigating campus life with attendees.
Littles informed the students that applications for many of the organizations were currently open and also highlighted campus resources, including: TRIO, a college initiative focused on guiding first-generation college students, the Center for Student Engagement and Leadership (CSEL), the Student Center, the Latasha Norman Center (LNC), Honors College, and other programs.
“Joining student organizations on campus is great for networking with people with similar interests as you,” said Littles, a senior physics major from Picayune, Miss.”
Advice on how to properly engage as a college freshman was discussed:
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- Respect yourself as well as your learning environment
- Get involved with campus organizations
- Utilize campus resources to your advantage
- Form relationships with peers and the professionals around you
- Choose your friends wisely
- Don’t be afraid to speak up/ask questions
- Everyone makes mistakes; learn from them
- Find a study schedule/strategy that works best for you
- Get plenty of rest
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After the presentation, a panel of six student leaders sat down for “the tea” and invited students to share common concerns.
The discussion heated up when Italian Johnson, a senior physics major from Edwards, Miss., dove into the importance of being organized.
“Being a college student is like having a full-time job. To have a successful college career, dedication, hard work, and sacrifice are key attributes students must have. Invest in a planner to schedule tests, projects, and homework. Writing things down always helps,” said Johnson.
Panelists and students continued a lively conversation, with the panelists answering many questions and addressing other concerns.
One of the program’s highlights included the student panelists discussing their personal experiences on JSU issues and general college life.
Kayla Sanders, a junior social work major, was very pleased with the information shared during the event.
“I loved the “What’s Tea About Thee” event because it gives the freshmen insights about what happens at Jackson State that isn’t always broadcast or shown. It lets them know what to do if they do encounter a similar experience that an upperclassman has already experienced, also letting them know they’re never alone. The upperclassmen are here to guide them and give advice,” said Sanders.
Johnson emphasized the title regarding the event stating that the event allowed students to speak freely and reflect on their campus experience thus far, setting the tone for a school year full of accountability and conversation.
“There was definitely some tea spilled,” said Johnson.
