Group Presentation Reflections-Sierra Williams

Overall I think all of the presentations went very well. My group presented about the Artificial leaf, which in the future can be a source of energy to power cars and homes. Other things I learned about was education in Haiti. This presentation tied in the previous concept discussed which was culturally specific education. The death penalty being wrongly implemented and the program used to try and combat that was also presented very well. Each presentation was executed well. To change things I would have allowed more time for the presentations in terms of research time and presentation time so each topic could be discussed more indepth. I think the presentation format could have also been more complex and possibly included more technology and multimedia in order to get the point across. In general the presentations were implemented well.

Free Write-Princess

I believe I'm missing a free write so here it is.

My time at Howard has been nothing short of amazing so far. Having to balance NROTC and academics is extremely challenging. In fact, it's much more difficult than I originally thought it would be. I'm glad that I have the support of my family and friends, without whom I may have already given up. I'm looking forward to a great experience for the rest of my time here at Howard.

To be continued...

A Charge to Keep- Princess

During this lecture, Ms. Worthy described to us the cultural relevance of LEAP schools. To summarize, these are schools that cater specifically to the African American mindset to best assist the youth in learning. She is strongly against having white teachers educate black children because she sees a large cultural gap between us that cannot be bridged in such a setting. She stressed how even the smallest things, such as the tardy bell, all express eurocentric manners of thinking that are at odds with the way the African mind works. This "culturally relevant teaching" should greatly assist student learning because it aligns culture, psychology, and education in order to help students learn easier.

I have to question some of the material in this lecture, however. Immediately after class, I had to clarify a question I had with Ms. Worthy. I asked her if she was for the segregation of black and white students teachers in schools. She replied that she believes black people should teach "our babies" and white people should teach "their babies". She believes it is critical for white people to acknowledge themselves as the oppressors before we can move on from the past. I have to question this segregated system that she proposes just because it contradicts the very nature of Brown v Board of Education, a ruling that desegregated schools and eventually lead to better race relations.

-Princess Jenkins-Simlin

Semester Reflection

My first semester at Howard University was definitely one to remember. I've met a variety of people and had a few great and not so great experiences.

At the beginning of the semester my first blog was about how I couldn't see this course as holding any value in my life. I said that it would be a complete waste of my time. After taking the course, however, I must argue that the reverse is true. Despite being seemingly inconvenient, this course opened my mind to several different ways of thinking. For example, I understand many of my daily actions here at Howard as mbongis. Many aspects of the class can be converted to having legitimate purposes in one's daily life.

Throughout my time at Howard University, I have made what I hope to be lifelong friends. Everyone always told me that networking would be a valuable skill when I came here, and they were right.

Overall, I'm glad I chose the Mecca, despite having other opportunities. I'm honored to spend the next 3.5 years of my life here.

Princess Jenkins-Simlin

Self Reflection- Sierra Williams

Overall my first semester experience at Howard was an eye opener. It took some adjusting to but as time went on, I really grasped how to attempt to handle the work load, social life etc. Freshman Seminar has really taught me things that I can honestly say I didn’t know before. I learned a great amount of history about the African American, African, Caribbean and related cultures. I think it is important for people to learn and I like the idea of “mbongi” as physical and intellectual space.
“what you think belongs to you, what you say belongs to the public”. Everything that I have learned of the course has further point that education is the great equalizer. Freshman Seminar made the first semester and easier transition because it united the Freshman class, and created something that we would all have in common. Freshman seminar is a starting place, that has helped with my transition to the second semester.

Group Presentation Reflection -Princess

There was a group I enjoyed in particular that talked about the necessity of HBCUs in today's society. Despite the common misconception that they are unnecessary, they are proven to continue to help blacks be successful in this eurocentric country. A lot of what was shown in that presentation rang true for myself. For example, I chose to apply to only HBCUs because, having gone to primarily white and asian schools, I wanted to be around successful black people. It is extremely empowering to be around other black students who have similar goals.

I found the presentation about ebonics to be extremely interesting. I never thought of it as a separate language. I suppose that would explain many things about the unsuccessful education of the African American youth in our society. I'm still not entirely sure that I believe that idea because it seems so foreign to me. I'll have to look into it more.

The group presentations were overall rather interesting.

Princess Jenkins-Simlin

Isabel Wilkerson Discussion

On November 14th, I went to hear Isabel Wilkerson speak in Crampton Auditorium. Hearing her speak, helped me place into context many of the feelings and situations that occurred in The Warmth of Other Suns. She told us how she a long, uncomfortable journey with her parents, mirroring that of another person in her book. She used this example to further illustrate the desperation people felt in trying to get out of the South. She also talked about how the Migration drastically changed history. Without it, many our parents wouldn't have met. She even went so far as to say that Michael Jackson and events such as the Harlem Renaissance would be nonexistant had it not been for the Great Migration.

Wilkerson brought up what I believed to be a very interesting fact. Many people believed black people were lynched when a white woman would lie about being raped or for trying to steal to survive. This was, however, not the case for the majority of black lynchings and beatings. Apparently, the number one thing to get black people lynched was the accusation of "acting white", something that could imply anything. She gave the example of how a man was severely beaten for asking for the receipt of a water bill that he had just payed.

Princess Jenkins-Simlin

English Common Text evening with Isabel Wilkerson- Sierra Williams

One of the main points that Isabel Wilkerson talked about was he inspiration for the book and why she wrote it in the first place. Isabel Wilkerson was a product of the Great Migration. He parents both migrated to Washington, DC, and met at Howard University. Wilkerson made a point to say that “if it wasn’t for the Great Migration and Howard University, I would not be around.” That is something I didn’t know before going to the talk with Isabel Wilkerson.
Another point Wilkerson made was to describe in depth the details about the Great Migration. It was the migration of six million African Americans from the South to the North for better opportunities.
Something that I thought was very interesting was that people really came from all over during the Great Migration. She said that it affected every single family for the most part. I didn’t think that it affected my family. My father is from the West Indies and my mother from Philadelphia, but then I thought back further and I remember that my Great Grandmother was from the south. The Great Migration was a good thing , because it benefited many families.
The talk with Isabel Wilkerson impacted my understanding, by thinking deeply about how these are true stories that can connect to many people from all over.

Amber Spencer: Common Text evening with Isabel Wilkerson

I attended the Isabel Wilkerson event on Monday, November 14. I am very grateful that I was able to attend. This event gave me better understanding of the book, The Warmth of Other Suns, as well as helped me understand the period of time that the events in the novel took place.
One thing that Isabel Wilkerson stated that stuck out to me, was how without the Great Migration, many things and people that exist today would not have come about. For example, she spoke about the cultural aspects that would not be available such as certain types of music as well as people that we may even know personally. Without this Great Migration, I would not even be here right now. The fact that she made this point allowed me to be more grateful and respectful to my ancestors who gave up so much for a better life.
Also, she mentioned how passing a white motorist was illegal and you could get lynched for that. I was appalled at this fact. It was definitely a major eye-opener. I always knew that African Americans would get lynched for reasons that they should not have, but not being able to pass someone else on the road, no matter how slow they may be traveling, seems ridiculous. It disgusts me that African Americans were punished so harshly for such small things.
I am extremely thankful to the sacrifices my ancestors made for me. I am also thankful that Isabel Wilkerson wrote such a well-written and intriguing book that allowed my eyes to be opened to an interesting topic.

Research Methodology: Trey Lasane

Dr. Williams' post concerning research methodology served as the foundation of the research we are currently doing with our group projects. Her slides showed us that we need to emphasize putting thought into our research before we actually do the research. Dr. Williams wanted us to make sure that we answer all of the right questions when we begin our research. More importantly, she wanted us to be committed to a "lifetime of independent discovery." This is always been a goal of mine; I want to learn more every single day.Dr. Williams used a lot of examples from our peers as well as well renowned scholars. I feel that I am fully prepared to begin my research and delegate responsibilities to my group.

Miss Evers Boys

Miss Ever's Boys is a play based on the true story of a medical abomination that occurred in Tuskeegee, Alabama. A study concerning the existence and general nature of syphillis was conducted. In the study, however, a group of African American men, Miss Ever's Boys, were purposefully given the syphillis virus. The men were told they were being treated for "bad blood". Even after the cure for syphillis was discovered, the studies continued. Penicillin, a cheap, over the counter drug, could have easily saved the lives of those men. As a result of this disgusting occurrence, Miss Evers had to watch each of her boys eventually die from a treatable illness. I liked the play because it showed a more personal side to the story. It's easy to read about this tragedy on paper and say that it was wrong, but the way the story was told combined with stellar acting really brought the play home for me.

Princess Jenkins-Simlin

Homecoming-Issues with wifi connection

Homecoming was an experience that I will never forget. It was a great opportunity to see a lot of celebrities come and share quality time with everyday students. I noticed how celebrities like college students because they share the same desire for greatness. Most celebrities are prime examples of success, and it seemed as if college students wnat to be in their position one day.
 I had the opportunity to participate in front of the parade with our very own Howard University Air Force Reserve Officer's Training Corps. We marched with pride and shouted our jodies out as loud and proud as we could! I will never forget that day.

Homecoming

Due to a busy schedule, I wasn't able to attend many of the Homecoming events. I had a military obligation that took up the entirety of my Saturday, from 3am until 9pm. It was extremely disappointing. Aside from that, the actual Homecoming experience was amazing. I could feel the school come alive the closer it got to Saturday, the more excited everyone was getting. I have friends who go to other Universities in the DC area. When I spoke to some of them, they all told me how excited they were about attending the real HUs Homecoming. It was great that they all finally realized how amazing Howard is, even if it was only for a brief moment. At the same time, I was somewhat disappointed that I would miss my first Homecoming. Maybe next year Howard.

Princess Jenkins-Simlin

Amber Spencer: Homecoming

Homecoming week just occurred, and I must say that it was a very exciting week! Unfortunately due to a busy schedule with homework assignments and club meetings I was not able to attend everything that was offered. The events I did attend were fun though! The fact that it was my first homecoming as an actual Howard student made the entire week exciting. It was awesome to see the entire school filled with so much spirit and pride. I never got into homecoming back at home, but seeing all of the energy and excitement that Howard offered actually made me excited for homecoming. It made me feel like a true member of the Howard University family. Seeing so many people coming out to the Howard Homecoming helped me to realize how major homecoming is for the students, families, and others as well! This year's homecoming made me feel like homecoming really is supposed to mean coming home, and by Saturday night I truly felt that Howard University was my home. Homecoming was an amazing experience that helped me understand the meaning of "coming home."

K'ara Locke- Freewrite

I feel like just a few weeks ago we were all saying our good byes to our families as they were going back home leaving us alone to be adults. The time has flown. My weeks seem to be moving by like they are days. I have been enjoying my classes so far minus the homework. Mid-terms came faster than I was expecting as did homecoming. I remember looking at the blue 5"x7" "SAVE THE DATES" flyer that we received during freshman week with all the homecoming events, it seem so far away; but now it is here. There doesn't seem to be enough time in a day for me to get everything accomplished that I would like to (if I want to sleep). Trying to balance sports and school was difficult at first now I feel like I've got the hang of it and it is getting easier. I am anxious for what the rest of this semester holds.

Sierra Williams

Amber Spencer: Freewrite

It is amazing to think about how far we have made it through the year. I'm glad that I have been able to take this course. It has taught me about my ancestors as well as encouraged me to be a successful student. All of the lectures have influenced in a great way and have allowed me grow. Also the opportunies were wonderful. For example, I do not think that I would have gotten much of a chance to see the African Burial Ground if the class had not offered it. Also, it was interesting to go see the Miss Evers' Boys play. There are things that this class required me to do that I know that I would not taken advantage of if it was not required. I am honestly grateful of some of these requirements though. It allowed me to receive a different type of learning experience that I plan to carry throughout the rest of my college years as well as after college. As I continue to balance school, friends, and other clubs and activities, I hope that I am able to retain what I learned in this class and use it for the benefit of not only myself, but others around me as well.

Freewrite: Trey Lasane

It's crazy how time has already flown this year. Every freshman is scrambling to balance school, clubs/sports, maintaing your dorm, having fun, and making the most out of every experience. Some students are starting to learn whether or not the major is right for them, some are even questioning if college is right for them. When all else fails with other people being able to help you, who will rise to the occasion? The students with the will to survive will make it. I thought Carver week sent a lot of positive messages (at 4 AM) about how we control our own destiny. Our RA's and GA's explained all about how one slight misstep can ruin your entire life.

K'ara Locke - "Miss Ever's Boys"

I really enjoyed the play and the message was very clear and easy to grasp. The idea that the white man tricks the black man, leading him to believe that he will benefit from it in the end but the white man is really only interested in his own selfish outcomes. They led all those men to believe they could get better and help their community and make a difference by using Miss Evers to cover it all up. Even though she wanted to get out of it because she did not agree she was not able to. She really loved Miss Ever’s Boys and she did not want anything to happen to them but she was stuck in a position and she did not know what to do to get out of it. What I got from this play was that you cannot lose who you are in the midst of trying to help someone else. Never compromise who you are.

K'ara Locke - African Burial Ground

The trip to New York to see the African Burial Ground was very interesting. It is a lot different to see it rather than just hearing about it. It was easier to connect to everything they went through and the true historical significance of the African Burial Ground when you can see it. It was very disturbing to see how small the actual monument is. There are so many bodies buried in that area and all these buildings have just been built on top of them intentionally as if they did not mean anything. The lack of humanity that they show towards all these people because of history is unbelievable. Nonetheless, I really enjoyed the trip and I learned so much that I feel everyone else should have access to as well. The trip was more than amazing.