With 105 historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) full of rich history and excitement, sometimes it's difficult to decide which one you'd like to attend. The one that may be the closest to your current neighborhood (or the furthest) may not necessarily have the classes, majors or environment you're looking for. This article includes things to look for when picking an HBCU.
Instructions
Select a Historically Black College or University
1. Research the demographics of the city that the HBCU is located in. Just because the university may seem appealing does not mean you are necessarily ready for the surrounding environment. It is a common misconception that HBCUs have predominantly Black students, because so many, especially in predominantly white towns, have a more diverse population. It is imperative that prospective students visit the campus on a regular school day, including the dorms. Vacations are not the ideal time to visit a university, because the student needs to see what a regular day will be like when attending the college.
2. Make sure the HBCU is accredited.
3. If you are attending an HBCU for graduate school, do not assume that because the university had your major in undergrad that it will also have it in grad school. HBCU or not, many universities do not have the same professors to teach both levels because of time constraints, degree level or financial issues. Contact the graduate admissions office or visit their website for a complete listing of the degree programs.
4. Make sure you can afford the tuition. Visit libraries to find out about scholarships and grants starting from your junior year of high school. Listen to radio shows from radio personalities who give away money to attend a HBCU. Ask for information on tuition prices and book fees before filling out an admissions form, because there is no point in wasting admission fees if you do not have the funds to attend the university. Apply for financial aid as soon as possible after being accepted to the university. Also, look around the area for on-campus (work-study) and off-campus jobs. Even with financial aid, most students will eventually need additional funds for everyday expenses. It doesn't hurt to fill out a couple of job applications in surrounding areas.
5. HBCU or not, cafeteria food seldom changes, and a lot of it is just not fresh or healthy. If you are a vegetarian, make sure that the university gives you a reasonable amount of alternate dishes that you can eat, because Ramen noodles and salad gets old quickly. If you are allergic or lactose intolerant, also pay attention to the preparation of the meals that are being served. For students who do not have cars or friends with cars who can easily drive to a nearby grocery store for substitutes, the diet for these meals is imperative.
Tags: because university, Black College, that because