A recent blog identified that 14,616 students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) were denied Direct PLUS loans for the fall 2012 academic year, and were unable to return to school. The five schools hit hardest (and the number of students affected) were:
1. North Carolina Central University (NC): 609
2. Howard University (DC): 607
3. Florida A&M University (FL): 569
4. Prairie View A&M (TX): 528
5. Grambling State University (LA): 523
This news hits home for a number of reasons. First, as a third-generation HBCU alum, I understand and appreciate the significant role these institutions play in preparing African-American students for careers and life. Second, as a Howard University professor, I witness daily the financial struggles that some students maintain in order to pursue a college education. Tuition alone is approximately $35,000. That's a lot of money for any student.
The final reason this hits home is because I also know, as a college professor, how many students (and parents) fail to exhaust all financial aid opportunities available. Let me further clarify, they fail to exhaust all non-repayment forms of financial aid opportunities available. These include scholarships, grants, and work study opportunities.
During students' senior year of high school, many are overwhelmed with the college admissions process, completing high school, graduation, prom, and other activities, that financial aid becomes an overlooked part of the process that is placed on the back burner. Once acceptance letters arrive, students don't pay attention to the fact that they must submit the FAFSA (and early), parents must complete taxes, and they must NOW search for FREE financial aid (those requiring no repayment). Others unfortunately don't want to write any more essays, so they forfeit applying to scholarships and grants to avoid the extra work. This extra work could easily save you thousands of dollars.
Once they arrive at the university, students have this same mindset when it comes to financial aid. They won't apply to opportunities, because they don't want to complete the application and write an essay. I know this all too well. I have several scholarship opportunities currently for all classifications.
Scholarship 1: Freshmen in the School of Engineering can receive $4000-$8000 per year, for their first two years. There is no GPA requirement, and the only requirements are monthly progress reports and meetings. While 90% of the freshmen need financial assistance, we received, on average 5 unsolicited applications for 15 slots per year.
Scholarship 2: Junior computer science majors can receive $10,000 per year in scholarship PLUS $7200 per year in 9-month stipend to do research in emergency preparedness. I had three slots available in years 1 and 2. Only 1 applied in year 1, and out of the 3 applicants in year 2, only 1 was selected to participate.
What's wrong with this picture?????
The truth is, there is definitely a financial aid crisis in this country. The number of students qualifying for and needing financial assistance continues to increase. Just look at the increase in the number of Pell Grant-eligible students. However, the availability of these opportunities continues to shrink. Students must exhaust opportunities that are available. They not only help them financially, but also academically and professionally. If students choose to major in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), ESPECIALLY African-American students AND at HBCUs, then there is really no excuse for not finding financial aid in some form.
Through my books and workshops, I ALWAYS stress to students and parents to exhaust non-repayment options first. Student loans should be a last resort. The referenced blog above is a perfect example of why. As these opportunities continue to decline, students and families will be forced to make some hard decisions. Don't make these harder than they have to be.
For more information on financial aid options, refer to my website, as well as books, Prepped for Success: What Every Parent Should Know About the College Application Process, and Stay Prepped: 10 Steps to Succeeding in College (And Having a Ball Doing It). Both provide a wealth of resources on finding and winning financial aid, whether you are a high-school senior or current undergraduate.
Monday, April 15, 2013
Sunday, March 31, 2013
Innocence Lost: Atlanta Public Schools and the Countless Victims
This past Friday, 35 people, including principals, assistant principals, teachers, and even the superintendent of Atlanta Public Schools, were indicted in one of the largest school cheating cases in this country. Their crimes: falsifying standardized test scores, which resulted in increased pay for a number of individuals.
The allegations date back as early as 2000. This means that, over the past 13 years (at LEAST), there have allegedly been such illegal and unethical activities going on in APS. That's 13 years: a child's entire K-12 tenure. This means there are some children who were essentially failed from start to finish of their public school career, not by their parents, not by their environment, and not by themselves. They were failed by the group of individuals trained, prepared, and hired to ensure that they received the best education possible: the educators.
Living in the Washington, DC area, I witnessed the uproar that Michelle Rhee caused when she took over as Chancellor of DC Public Schools. Her arguments were that the teachers were responsible for ensuring students were adequately prepared. As a result, she also fired a number of teachers who weren't performing as expected. Suffice it to say, she was not well-liked.
I'm not saying I agree with Michelle Rhee. As a child of a retired K-12 administrator, I grew up listening to my father's stories about students and parents, and issues that he encountered. I remember him receiving threatening phone calls (at home), from suspended students. I also remember him holding teachers, staff, and administrators accountable for doing their part.....always.
What disturbs me about this entire APS scandal is that the people who were expected to do right by these kids, were so self-involved that they never once thought about the short and long-term ramifications of their actions. Instead, they were consumed with the immediate financial rewards they would receive.
In one article, a parent of a then-5th grader went to her school administrators and told them she had serious concerns that her child was not doing well in reading, yet aced the standardized reading tests. She was told by administrators her daughter was "just a good test taker." .....................................*insert blank stare*.............................................................................................
Really? In an era where we complain so much about how students, particularly African-American students underperform on standardized tests, a student who struggles during the school year aces a standardized tests? To the point her mother even argues this makes no sense?
Now, this child is a 9th-grader, reading at a 5th grade level. What chance does this girl have for succeeding in high-school? What are her chances of performing well on the SAT or ACT, and being admitted to college? If she is fortunate enough to go, how will she succeed in a university setting, where students are expected to have, at minimum, a basic high-school education and ability to not only manage their time, but also study and succeed academically? What future does this girl have, when she is 15 years old and reading at a 5th grade level? What kind of frustration and insecurities have you created in a child who, unknowingly, was socially promoted through school, just so the teachers, administrators, and superintendent could make more money?
In an era of technology, social media, and all kinds of information, we (myself included) are quick to discuss this generation of students in terms of the fast-food generation: those who want everything now, expect everything, are always "connected," unaware of their own mortality and the ramifications of their actions. Then there is the discussion about the parents: who are concerned about work more than their kids and their well-being. Those who are more concerned with having their own life than ensuring that their kids have the best one possible, or those who expect the teachers to work miracles and turn water into wine.
Yes, we've all discussed these types of students and parents. But let's now turn our attention to the most heinous and problematic of this story: the educators.
Disclaimer: this is not a judgement of all educators. Again, I'm a third-generation educator. I understand and appreciate everyone, ESPECIALLY K-12 educators for what they do. It is a thankless job.
However, for those of you in this APS scandal, and those who are unnamed, but are just as guilty in other parts of the country, I have this to say: shame on you. You were formally trained to prepare students to be able to complete not only high school, but enter college if they choose. You were blessed with the opportunity to not only complete your studies, but enter your field and succeed. You were afforded opportunities to climb in ranking in your field (Beverly Hall). Instead of paying it forward, the way each of us is expected to, you TOOK that opportunity from so many children. You stole their chances to excel academically, win scholarships to college, and for some I'm sure, graduate from high school and attend college. APS is 78% African-American, with approximately 75% of all students qualifying for free and reduced lunch. Guess who was hurt the most by these actions.
You stole the innocence of so many children who trusted you to do what was in their best interest. For those parents who trusted your training and position, you stole their opportunity do what was in the best interest of their children at the time (complain to the school board, find better schools, or outside resources). You created more statistics instead of scholars.
While I don't agree with Michelle Rhee's tactics, I will say that the APS scandal has made me think more about how off (or on for that matter) she was in holding educators more accountable. As a college professor, we see the after-effects of K-12 education. We see the students who soared, and will continue to in college and beyond, to those who flew under the radar and are either doing the same or struggling with adjusting to college life, and finally those who barely made it out of college and can go in either direction. There are always those who simply didn't apply themselves in high school and now they flourish in college. However, I can't see how a college student reading at a 5th or 6th grade level will ever be able to flourish. Honestly, I don't see how a student could even be accepted to college reading at that level.
And here is the problem. The APS 35 have essentially destroyed these children's lives before they even began. They eliminated so many opportunities to soar, for selfish, greedy reasons. And yet, they aren't alone.
The allegations date back as early as 2000. This means that, over the past 13 years (at LEAST), there have allegedly been such illegal and unethical activities going on in APS. That's 13 years: a child's entire K-12 tenure. This means there are some children who were essentially failed from start to finish of their public school career, not by their parents, not by their environment, and not by themselves. They were failed by the group of individuals trained, prepared, and hired to ensure that they received the best education possible: the educators.
Living in the Washington, DC area, I witnessed the uproar that Michelle Rhee caused when she took over as Chancellor of DC Public Schools. Her arguments were that the teachers were responsible for ensuring students were adequately prepared. As a result, she also fired a number of teachers who weren't performing as expected. Suffice it to say, she was not well-liked.
I'm not saying I agree with Michelle Rhee. As a child of a retired K-12 administrator, I grew up listening to my father's stories about students and parents, and issues that he encountered. I remember him receiving threatening phone calls (at home), from suspended students. I also remember him holding teachers, staff, and administrators accountable for doing their part.....always.
What disturbs me about this entire APS scandal is that the people who were expected to do right by these kids, were so self-involved that they never once thought about the short and long-term ramifications of their actions. Instead, they were consumed with the immediate financial rewards they would receive.
In one article, a parent of a then-5th grader went to her school administrators and told them she had serious concerns that her child was not doing well in reading, yet aced the standardized reading tests. She was told by administrators her daughter was "just a good test taker." .....................................*insert blank stare*.............................................................................................
Really? In an era where we complain so much about how students, particularly African-American students underperform on standardized tests, a student who struggles during the school year aces a standardized tests? To the point her mother even argues this makes no sense?
Now, this child is a 9th-grader, reading at a 5th grade level. What chance does this girl have for succeeding in high-school? What are her chances of performing well on the SAT or ACT, and being admitted to college? If she is fortunate enough to go, how will she succeed in a university setting, where students are expected to have, at minimum, a basic high-school education and ability to not only manage their time, but also study and succeed academically? What future does this girl have, when she is 15 years old and reading at a 5th grade level? What kind of frustration and insecurities have you created in a child who, unknowingly, was socially promoted through school, just so the teachers, administrators, and superintendent could make more money?
In an era of technology, social media, and all kinds of information, we (myself included) are quick to discuss this generation of students in terms of the fast-food generation: those who want everything now, expect everything, are always "connected," unaware of their own mortality and the ramifications of their actions. Then there is the discussion about the parents: who are concerned about work more than their kids and their well-being. Those who are more concerned with having their own life than ensuring that their kids have the best one possible, or those who expect the teachers to work miracles and turn water into wine.
Yes, we've all discussed these types of students and parents. But let's now turn our attention to the most heinous and problematic of this story: the educators.
Disclaimer: this is not a judgement of all educators. Again, I'm a third-generation educator. I understand and appreciate everyone, ESPECIALLY K-12 educators for what they do. It is a thankless job.
However, for those of you in this APS scandal, and those who are unnamed, but are just as guilty in other parts of the country, I have this to say: shame on you. You were formally trained to prepare students to be able to complete not only high school, but enter college if they choose. You were blessed with the opportunity to not only complete your studies, but enter your field and succeed. You were afforded opportunities to climb in ranking in your field (Beverly Hall). Instead of paying it forward, the way each of us is expected to, you TOOK that opportunity from so many children. You stole their chances to excel academically, win scholarships to college, and for some I'm sure, graduate from high school and attend college. APS is 78% African-American, with approximately 75% of all students qualifying for free and reduced lunch. Guess who was hurt the most by these actions.
You stole the innocence of so many children who trusted you to do what was in their best interest. For those parents who trusted your training and position, you stole their opportunity do what was in the best interest of their children at the time (complain to the school board, find better schools, or outside resources). You created more statistics instead of scholars.
While I don't agree with Michelle Rhee's tactics, I will say that the APS scandal has made me think more about how off (or on for that matter) she was in holding educators more accountable. As a college professor, we see the after-effects of K-12 education. We see the students who soared, and will continue to in college and beyond, to those who flew under the radar and are either doing the same or struggling with adjusting to college life, and finally those who barely made it out of college and can go in either direction. There are always those who simply didn't apply themselves in high school and now they flourish in college. However, I can't see how a college student reading at a 5th or 6th grade level will ever be able to flourish. Honestly, I don't see how a student could even be accepted to college reading at that level.
And here is the problem. The APS 35 have essentially destroyed these children's lives before they even began. They eliminated so many opportunities to soar, for selfish, greedy reasons. And yet, they aren't alone.
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
What We Should All Learn from Steubenville
Last week, 17-year-old Trent Mays and 16-year-old Ma'lik Richmond were found guilty of raping a 16-year-old girl at a house party in Steubenville, Ohio. The victim wasn't aware she'd been raped until pictures, videos, and tweets about the event went viral on social media.
There are so many layers to this story....so many sickening layers. The first layer is that this occurred at all. The next is that there were countless high-school age kids there who witnessed, took pictures and video of the act, and said or did nothing. Apparently, there are still countless students unwilling to cooperate with authorities. The third is that there are adults who, at some point, were made aware of the events and did nothing.
The next layer is that Steubenville is not an isolated incident. In this digital age, children are being raised to think and act completely different than my peers and those generations before us. I've encountered peers my age who, when confronted about something they posted online, replied "Facebook isn't real life." Isn't it though? And if you think that at age 25 and older, then what does that say about children 18 and under?
There are a number of lessons to be learned by the events that occurred at that party as well as those that continue to occur in the aftermath of the verdict. Each of us can learn something, so the best way to address it is by addressing each group.
Boys/Young Men
I was sickened to watch videos of boys not only violating a girl who clearly was incoherent, but also laughing and joking about how "she is so raped." At what point in society did rape become a joke? When did that become something that we make light and fun of, when it happens to a girl. Young men, you need to know that rape is NOT a joke. It is a serious violation of a female, one of the most heinous acts you can commit to a female. NO female deserves to be raped, regardless of how she is dressed, carries herself, or what she says and does. NO female deserves to be violated...ever. It's that simple. Young men are supposed to be raised to protect women, not destroy them and ridicule them in the process. You MUST stop listening to stupid lyrics in songs that degrade women, insinuate that drugging and raping women is acceptable behavior, and realize that you are responsible for your actions, good and bad. It doesn't make you a man to sleep with multiple women and hurt them. It makes you a coward. It doesn't make you above the law because you play a sport. In fact, there are and will be more eyes on you, because you do. This means you must make choices that not only ensure your safety and progress, but those of others around you. Your athletic abilities do not make you invincible...remember that. Crying that you are sorry after committing a crime means that you are sorry you were caught. The mark of a real man is how he treats the women in his life. If you do not commit any physical act, but are witness to it, take pictures, and do nothing about it, then you are JUST as culpable, if not more. It makes you more of a coward, because you stood by and did nothing. It makes you more of a follower, because you didn't have the presence of mind to do right when so much wrong was going on around you.
Girls/Young Women
You have a responsibility to protect yourself at all times. I tell my students continuously, "no one can fight for you like you." Remember your worth. Remember that you are a prize. It is never ok for a male to grab you or any body part, no matter how much they say they are joking. You must demand respect for yourself. In addition, you must be aware of your surroundings at all times. More importantly, if you see another female who is NOT, and is being violated in ANY way, you must help her. You must remember that every young man you encounter was not raised to treat young women with respect. As a result, you must remember that you teach people how to treat you. You must NEVER threaten a victim of a crime for standing up for herself. It was so disheartening to learn that two female students sent threatening texts and messages to the victim after these young men were found guilty. What kind of world do we live in now where young women threaten rape victims now? You must remember to ALWAYS stand up for what's right. You don't deserve to be violated, neither does anyone else, male or female. If you see wrong happening, you must tell someone. If you don't, shame on you. Remember to surround yourself with people who enhance you, not degrade you. You don't have to do what everyone else does. That's not the mark of a true leader. They observe the masses and do the opposite. Remembering this will always help you make better decisions.
Parents
You have a responsibility to be parents, not friends. You should not allow your children to have or attend parties where there is underage drinking. If you are aware of this, you have a responsibility to report it to the appropriate authorities. Your children are your first priority. They didn't ask to be here. Your lifestyle must change to ensure that they are being raised to be productive members of society. This means teaching your children right from wrong. In addition, it means leading by example. When crimes occur, it's your responsibility to report them and lead by example, no matter if it's your child or not. You have an obligation to teach your sons that rape is NOT ok. It is NOT a joke. It's not something to tweet and post pics of jokingly. In fact, they should be appalled to even hear the word, let alone witness it. Your children should be scared of YOU before they are scared of the law. Your children are not your friends. They are not your peers. Defending your children when they are wrong means that you are not being a responsible parent. You have a responsibility to teach your daughters that their bodies are not to be violated by them or anyone else. You must teach them to respect themselves and others. You must teach them that some people will not respect them, and they should be prepared to handle these situations correctly, should they be forced to encounter them. Simply put, you must be a parent.
Coaches/Teachers/Other Adults
You are the individuals that these students look up to when they don't look up to their parents. You should be more concerned about developing great human beings than winning championships. You often learn about things long before parents do. As a result, you are expected to do the right thing and not turn a blind eye to wrong, especially in such a horrific example as this. No trophy, award, or prize is worth some child's life.
There is so much about this situation that was horrific, disgusting, unbelievable, and tragic. Three lives are forever changed, and countless more will probably follow. Are we back to a time where women are viewed with no value in this society? Is this what we are raising our boys and young men to think?
Furthermore, whether you are young or old, male or female, black or white, you must learn that right is right, and wrong is wrong. Period. Steubenville isn't just some small town in Ohio. This is happening around the country, and around the globe. We each have a responsibility to ensure this never happens again.
There are so many layers to this story....so many sickening layers. The first layer is that this occurred at all. The next is that there were countless high-school age kids there who witnessed, took pictures and video of the act, and said or did nothing. Apparently, there are still countless students unwilling to cooperate with authorities. The third is that there are adults who, at some point, were made aware of the events and did nothing.
The next layer is that Steubenville is not an isolated incident. In this digital age, children are being raised to think and act completely different than my peers and those generations before us. I've encountered peers my age who, when confronted about something they posted online, replied "Facebook isn't real life." Isn't it though? And if you think that at age 25 and older, then what does that say about children 18 and under?
There are a number of lessons to be learned by the events that occurred at that party as well as those that continue to occur in the aftermath of the verdict. Each of us can learn something, so the best way to address it is by addressing each group.
Boys/Young Men
I was sickened to watch videos of boys not only violating a girl who clearly was incoherent, but also laughing and joking about how "she is so raped." At what point in society did rape become a joke? When did that become something that we make light and fun of, when it happens to a girl. Young men, you need to know that rape is NOT a joke. It is a serious violation of a female, one of the most heinous acts you can commit to a female. NO female deserves to be raped, regardless of how she is dressed, carries herself, or what she says and does. NO female deserves to be violated...ever. It's that simple. Young men are supposed to be raised to protect women, not destroy them and ridicule them in the process. You MUST stop listening to stupid lyrics in songs that degrade women, insinuate that drugging and raping women is acceptable behavior, and realize that you are responsible for your actions, good and bad. It doesn't make you a man to sleep with multiple women and hurt them. It makes you a coward. It doesn't make you above the law because you play a sport. In fact, there are and will be more eyes on you, because you do. This means you must make choices that not only ensure your safety and progress, but those of others around you. Your athletic abilities do not make you invincible...remember that. Crying that you are sorry after committing a crime means that you are sorry you were caught. The mark of a real man is how he treats the women in his life. If you do not commit any physical act, but are witness to it, take pictures, and do nothing about it, then you are JUST as culpable, if not more. It makes you more of a coward, because you stood by and did nothing. It makes you more of a follower, because you didn't have the presence of mind to do right when so much wrong was going on around you.
Girls/Young Women
You have a responsibility to protect yourself at all times. I tell my students continuously, "no one can fight for you like you." Remember your worth. Remember that you are a prize. It is never ok for a male to grab you or any body part, no matter how much they say they are joking. You must demand respect for yourself. In addition, you must be aware of your surroundings at all times. More importantly, if you see another female who is NOT, and is being violated in ANY way, you must help her. You must remember that every young man you encounter was not raised to treat young women with respect. As a result, you must remember that you teach people how to treat you. You must NEVER threaten a victim of a crime for standing up for herself. It was so disheartening to learn that two female students sent threatening texts and messages to the victim after these young men were found guilty. What kind of world do we live in now where young women threaten rape victims now? You must remember to ALWAYS stand up for what's right. You don't deserve to be violated, neither does anyone else, male or female. If you see wrong happening, you must tell someone. If you don't, shame on you. Remember to surround yourself with people who enhance you, not degrade you. You don't have to do what everyone else does. That's not the mark of a true leader. They observe the masses and do the opposite. Remembering this will always help you make better decisions.
Parents
You have a responsibility to be parents, not friends. You should not allow your children to have or attend parties where there is underage drinking. If you are aware of this, you have a responsibility to report it to the appropriate authorities. Your children are your first priority. They didn't ask to be here. Your lifestyle must change to ensure that they are being raised to be productive members of society. This means teaching your children right from wrong. In addition, it means leading by example. When crimes occur, it's your responsibility to report them and lead by example, no matter if it's your child or not. You have an obligation to teach your sons that rape is NOT ok. It is NOT a joke. It's not something to tweet and post pics of jokingly. In fact, they should be appalled to even hear the word, let alone witness it. Your children should be scared of YOU before they are scared of the law. Your children are not your friends. They are not your peers. Defending your children when they are wrong means that you are not being a responsible parent. You have a responsibility to teach your daughters that their bodies are not to be violated by them or anyone else. You must teach them to respect themselves and others. You must teach them that some people will not respect them, and they should be prepared to handle these situations correctly, should they be forced to encounter them. Simply put, you must be a parent.
Coaches/Teachers/Other Adults
You are the individuals that these students look up to when they don't look up to their parents. You should be more concerned about developing great human beings than winning championships. You often learn about things long before parents do. As a result, you are expected to do the right thing and not turn a blind eye to wrong, especially in such a horrific example as this. No trophy, award, or prize is worth some child's life.
There is so much about this situation that was horrific, disgusting, unbelievable, and tragic. Three lives are forever changed, and countless more will probably follow. Are we back to a time where women are viewed with no value in this society? Is this what we are raising our boys and young men to think?
Furthermore, whether you are young or old, male or female, black or white, you must learn that right is right, and wrong is wrong. Period. Steubenville isn't just some small town in Ohio. This is happening around the country, and around the globe. We each have a responsibility to ensure this never happens again.
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Today's iCan't Moment: Late Students and Expectations
Before I begin, I want to shout out my good friend, Ryan Goldman, for the inspiration to create my "iCan't" series. These were inspired by his "Things Nariah Says" blog, which follows random, hilarious commentary from his daughter, Nariah.
There are certain things that I've come to realize over the last 6.5 years in academia that will never change. However, they DO seem to ebb and flow in the direction of improvement or worsening conditions, based on the class of students enrolled at the time. I like to call these my iCan't moments, that instant where something happens and, instead of getting frustrated, annoyed, and irritated with the situation, you simply shake your head, grab your forehead while walking away, and say " I can't....I just...I can't..." We've all had them. If you are an educator or parent, you've had them all too often.
Today's iCan't moment of the day is dedicated to a student I shall refer to as the Third-Striker. This student has taken my class three times, and seems hell-bent on trying to find a way to ease past and continue his coursework. As a student enrolled in the same course, with the same professor, you should somewhat know that professor's teaching style and, more importantly, pet peeves, right?????
Wrong....
T.S. has a habit this semester of arriving 15-25 minutes late to class. Last week, after arriving late to class, he asked that I go back to a screen where students were to copy onto their computer. My response was "(n)o. You should've been in class on time." You would think that would be enough of a warning right?? Well, that PLUS I've warned students I give pop quizzes and, they are always the first 10 minutes of class, right?? RIGHT?!?!?
Wrong...
Today, T.S. arrived in class approximately 20 minutes late. By this point, I've returned a quiz, reviewed the answers on the board, created an extra question from the quiz (which was subsequently worked out on the board as well), and provided students with an example problem to work on in class for the first 30 minutes. Being 10 minutes late to class, of course T.S. doesn't know what's going on.
After being informed that again, when you are late to class, you WILL be confused so get here on time, T.S. attempts to provide the following excuses (in that order):
1. He was only a few minutes late...(my response-based on what constitutes a few, you were 20 minutes late).
2. He was looking for parking... (my response-how does this become my problem? In fact it's not, and you should've accounted for this, given the fact that class starts at 11:10 am).
3. He was trying to get here on time...(my response-we all were, including myself. Somehow everyone else succeeded).
The Lesson: I was told by my coaches and other educators along my life travels, "if you're early, you're on time. If you're on time, you're late. If you're late, don't even bother."
As a student, you are being prepared not only with information in the classroom, but also in developing "intangibles," those soft skills or things that aren't part of the curriculum, but are expected of any professional in your field.
Regardless of your profession, in life, there is a thing called accountability. This means that there are consequences associated with your actions: good and bad. As a result, You will be held responsible for the choices you make. I remember professors in college who locked their doors when class started. There are even those who deduct points from your grade for being late. And no, not just a homework grade, your FINAL grade. You cannot, I repeat, CANNOT expect to enter a professional career and do what you want to do, when you want to do it. That is, unless you are the boss. In most instances, you won't be. In that case, you must play by the rules. And if you are consistently late for your job, AND you can't get your work done, then guess what? You WILL be fired.
But wait, did anyone catch a key phrase from that paragraph above?? If not, I'll paste it here..."You cannot, I repeat, CANNOT expect to enter a professional career and do what you want to do, when you want to do it." Key word...EXPECT. There is an overflow of expectation from students about what they deserve. However, there is an inverse relationship between what they expect and what they believe they should be held accountable for. To put it simple, as expectations increase, it appears that accountability decreases in the eyes of many students. That must be new math, cause I don't remember that making sense.
But I digress. At the end of the day, there are expectations that you may have as a student or child, but that doesn't mean they are justified. Even moreso, there is an even more important word you must learn and practice daily. And yes, AI got it wrong...and FYI...AI=Allen Iverson...you DO need to practice, and practice it daily. It's called "accountability." It comes before "expectation" in the dictionary. Learn it first, practice it, and then see what positive consequences begin to overflow as a result of your efforts. Cause yes, AI, practice makes perfect. More importantly, you play how you practice (what I also learned from my coaches).
Or....you can just follow T.S.'s motto. Better yet, follow Iverson's motto. Let me know how that works out for you. We see where it got both of them.
Woosah!!!
There are certain things that I've come to realize over the last 6.5 years in academia that will never change. However, they DO seem to ebb and flow in the direction of improvement or worsening conditions, based on the class of students enrolled at the time. I like to call these my iCan't moments, that instant where something happens and, instead of getting frustrated, annoyed, and irritated with the situation, you simply shake your head, grab your forehead while walking away, and say " I can't....I just...I can't..." We've all had them. If you are an educator or parent, you've had them all too often.
Today's iCan't moment of the day is dedicated to a student I shall refer to as the Third-Striker. This student has taken my class three times, and seems hell-bent on trying to find a way to ease past and continue his coursework. As a student enrolled in the same course, with the same professor, you should somewhat know that professor's teaching style and, more importantly, pet peeves, right?????
Wrong....
T.S. has a habit this semester of arriving 15-25 minutes late to class. Last week, after arriving late to class, he asked that I go back to a screen where students were to copy onto their computer. My response was "(n)o. You should've been in class on time." You would think that would be enough of a warning right?? Well, that PLUS I've warned students I give pop quizzes and, they are always the first 10 minutes of class, right?? RIGHT?!?!?
Wrong...
Today, T.S. arrived in class approximately 20 minutes late. By this point, I've returned a quiz, reviewed the answers on the board, created an extra question from the quiz (which was subsequently worked out on the board as well), and provided students with an example problem to work on in class for the first 30 minutes. Being 10 minutes late to class, of course T.S. doesn't know what's going on.
After being informed that again, when you are late to class, you WILL be confused so get here on time, T.S. attempts to provide the following excuses (in that order):
1. He was only a few minutes late...(my response-based on what constitutes a few, you were 20 minutes late).
2. He was looking for parking... (my response-how does this become my problem? In fact it's not, and you should've accounted for this, given the fact that class starts at 11:10 am).
3. He was trying to get here on time...(my response-we all were, including myself. Somehow everyone else succeeded).
The Lesson: I was told by my coaches and other educators along my life travels, "if you're early, you're on time. If you're on time, you're late. If you're late, don't even bother."
As a student, you are being prepared not only with information in the classroom, but also in developing "intangibles," those soft skills or things that aren't part of the curriculum, but are expected of any professional in your field.
Regardless of your profession, in life, there is a thing called accountability. This means that there are consequences associated with your actions: good and bad. As a result, You will be held responsible for the choices you make. I remember professors in college who locked their doors when class started. There are even those who deduct points from your grade for being late. And no, not just a homework grade, your FINAL grade. You cannot, I repeat, CANNOT expect to enter a professional career and do what you want to do, when you want to do it. That is, unless you are the boss. In most instances, you won't be. In that case, you must play by the rules. And if you are consistently late for your job, AND you can't get your work done, then guess what? You WILL be fired.
But wait, did anyone catch a key phrase from that paragraph above?? If not, I'll paste it here..."You cannot, I repeat, CANNOT expect to enter a professional career and do what you want to do, when you want to do it." Key word...EXPECT. There is an overflow of expectation from students about what they deserve. However, there is an inverse relationship between what they expect and what they believe they should be held accountable for. To put it simple, as expectations increase, it appears that accountability decreases in the eyes of many students. That must be new math, cause I don't remember that making sense.
But I digress. At the end of the day, there are expectations that you may have as a student or child, but that doesn't mean they are justified. Even moreso, there is an even more important word you must learn and practice daily. And yes, AI got it wrong...and FYI...AI=Allen Iverson...you DO need to practice, and practice it daily. It's called "accountability." It comes before "expectation" in the dictionary. Learn it first, practice it, and then see what positive consequences begin to overflow as a result of your efforts. Cause yes, AI, practice makes perfect. More importantly, you play how you practice (what I also learned from my coaches).
Or....you can just follow T.S.'s motto. Better yet, follow Iverson's motto. Let me know how that works out for you. We see where it got both of them.
Woosah!!!
Sunday, September 2, 2012
Hair and the Hype: What We Really Should Learn from the Hampton Hair Debate
Last week, the media outlets were abuzz with a Virginia news report that detailed Hampton University's business school bans male students from wearing cornrows and dreadlocks. This ban, which we note has been in place for the past 11 years, is designed to help students ensure corporate jobs. The recent report, and interview of current Hampton students has sparked a number of debates across social networks and the African-American community. How can a school ban hair styles for students? They should be able to wear their hair however they choose? Isn't that a freedom of expression? More importantly, shouldn't a student's work ethic and performance speak for them?
I've heard a number of arguments on either side of this. As a disclaimer, my opinion only. Here goes....In a perfect world, yes, everyone should be able to express themselves in whatever way they see fit (dress, hair, etc.). If you are talented, and can get the work done, that should be all that matters. However, we don't live in a perfect world. And the truth is that, the corporate world still dictates a lot of tradition that other sectors don't (i.e. engineering). Most corporate environments still require business/business casual attire. There may be a "casual Friday," but even that is TBD, based on whether that Friday requires any customer interaction.
The real truth, and this is where some may choose to not read, is that, as African-Americans, we still suffer from the black tax. When entering an environment where we don't call the shots, we have to not only play the game, but play it better than our counterparts to get in the door. Unfortunately, corporate America still isn't 100% ready to see the diverse style that we express.
In addition, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) still have an obligation to help students get from point A to point B. There are many students who come to college never owning a suit, not knowing how to "shift" between work and home environments, and who don't have good interview skills to even land a job. Unfortunately, students are judged before they are even contacted for an interview, based on their name, choice of institution, etc. Appearance then becomes another grounds for critique in this world.
It's imperative that HBCUs to do two things in the 21st century to prepare students:
1. Explain to students that current corporations and institutions require you to play the game. This means that, if you want a job on Wall St., you may have to change your appearance to get your foot in the door. Once you are IN, THEN you can become a change agent. However, you have to get in first. This is what Hampton's business school is currently teaching students. Nothing wrong with this, in my opinion. I require men in my class to remove their hats, else they are prohibited from entering class.Women have to come to class like they are dressed to learn, not hit the club. You can't show up to an interview like that and, contrary to what Allen Iverson thinks, you play how you practice. You can't show up for game day and think it all comes together without ever "talkin about PRACTICE."
2. If you don't like the rules, then you make your own. This means that you have to CREATE the opportunities for yourself. Start your own business, utilize your resources, network, and opportunities to build a brand and show that you are more than your hair, style, or degrees for that matter. Isn't this basically what 90% of Silicon Valley has done? Does anyone remember IBM in the 80s? Everyone wore a blue or black suit (male and female)...now look at Facebook,Google, Microsoft, and other companies. Casual is the norm. But that industry changed because people MADE it change. How does that happen in business? The same has to happen.
In order for that to happen, universities, particularly HBCUs, have to focus on teaching students BOTH sides of this argument. If you want to play in someone else's game, you have to play by their rules. That means conforming in some minds, but hey, you want to get in the game, those are the rules. If you don't want to do that, then you have to be willing to do your own thing. Doing that requires not only talent, but determination, dedication, and initiative. That has to be stressed throughout classrooms across the country. Brin and Page (Google), Zuckerburg (Facebook), and countless others didn't just do their work in the class and that was it. They dedicated countless hours outside of the classroom to honing their skills and building something they believed in, even when others told them they were insane. This has to happen across HBCUs across the country.
So, this isn't about what Hampton shouldn't have done. At the end of the day, it's a university, and a private on for that matter. They can, effectively, call the shots. Again, you have choices. If you don't like it, you have options. But we also have to make sure that we present students with BOTH sides of this game, and how critical it is to begin to produce more of the latter in order to effectively change the game.
I've heard a number of arguments on either side of this. As a disclaimer, my opinion only. Here goes....In a perfect world, yes, everyone should be able to express themselves in whatever way they see fit (dress, hair, etc.). If you are talented, and can get the work done, that should be all that matters. However, we don't live in a perfect world. And the truth is that, the corporate world still dictates a lot of tradition that other sectors don't (i.e. engineering). Most corporate environments still require business/business casual attire. There may be a "casual Friday," but even that is TBD, based on whether that Friday requires any customer interaction.
The real truth, and this is where some may choose to not read, is that, as African-Americans, we still suffer from the black tax. When entering an environment where we don't call the shots, we have to not only play the game, but play it better than our counterparts to get in the door. Unfortunately, corporate America still isn't 100% ready to see the diverse style that we express.
In addition, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) still have an obligation to help students get from point A to point B. There are many students who come to college never owning a suit, not knowing how to "shift" between work and home environments, and who don't have good interview skills to even land a job. Unfortunately, students are judged before they are even contacted for an interview, based on their name, choice of institution, etc. Appearance then becomes another grounds for critique in this world.
It's imperative that HBCUs to do two things in the 21st century to prepare students:
1. Explain to students that current corporations and institutions require you to play the game. This means that, if you want a job on Wall St., you may have to change your appearance to get your foot in the door. Once you are IN, THEN you can become a change agent. However, you have to get in first. This is what Hampton's business school is currently teaching students. Nothing wrong with this, in my opinion. I require men in my class to remove their hats, else they are prohibited from entering class.Women have to come to class like they are dressed to learn, not hit the club. You can't show up to an interview like that and, contrary to what Allen Iverson thinks, you play how you practice. You can't show up for game day and think it all comes together without ever "talkin about PRACTICE."
2. If you don't like the rules, then you make your own. This means that you have to CREATE the opportunities for yourself. Start your own business, utilize your resources, network, and opportunities to build a brand and show that you are more than your hair, style, or degrees for that matter. Isn't this basically what 90% of Silicon Valley has done? Does anyone remember IBM in the 80s? Everyone wore a blue or black suit (male and female)...now look at Facebook,Google, Microsoft, and other companies. Casual is the norm. But that industry changed because people MADE it change. How does that happen in business? The same has to happen.
In order for that to happen, universities, particularly HBCUs, have to focus on teaching students BOTH sides of this argument. If you want to play in someone else's game, you have to play by their rules. That means conforming in some minds, but hey, you want to get in the game, those are the rules. If you don't want to do that, then you have to be willing to do your own thing. Doing that requires not only talent, but determination, dedication, and initiative. That has to be stressed throughout classrooms across the country. Brin and Page (Google), Zuckerburg (Facebook), and countless others didn't just do their work in the class and that was it. They dedicated countless hours outside of the classroom to honing their skills and building something they believed in, even when others told them they were insane. This has to happen across HBCUs across the country.
So, this isn't about what Hampton shouldn't have done. At the end of the day, it's a university, and a private on for that matter. They can, effectively, call the shots. Again, you have choices. If you don't like it, you have options. But we also have to make sure that we present students with BOTH sides of this game, and how critical it is to begin to produce more of the latter in order to effectively change the game.
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
Back to School Advice for College-Bound Students and Parents
I'm BACK folks! Just in time for the beginning of a new school year. I promise to be better about my blogs this year (seriously).
For many of you, freshman move-in and orientation has already completed, and you are awaiting the first day of class. For the rest of you, get ready, stay calm (and sane), and safe travels!!
As you begin a new adventure in college, it's important that you know a few important things before you even step foot inside a classroom. Parents, this goes for you too. Read this, remember this, preach this, practice this. It will help the rest of your college experience run a lot smoother and drama free. After all, "college IS the best time of your life." I would pay money to be able to do it all over again right now. My parents told me that when they dropped me off in Charlotte 16 (ouch) years ago. How right they were (for once)!!
I joke, but there are a lot of things my parents left me with that day that helped me. So as I impart knowledge to the next generation of global leaders, I'll share these nuggets with you as well:
1. Know your surroundings...at ALL times. Being in Washington, DC, we have students from all over the world. I can't explain how many times I've heard students claim "I'm from {Chicago, ATL, Charlotte, LA, Miami, NY, etc.}." At the end of the day, Rakim said it best, "it ain't where you're from, it's where you're at." Translation: Your new environment is NOT your home environment. Don't get comfortable and don't think that you are immune to crime because you are on a college campus. Be alert and be aware. Don't walk around at night alone (campus escorts are on every campus), stay in groups, and DO NOT...DO NOT walk around with earbuds in your ear not paying attention to anything or chatting away on the phone.
2. Make a good connection with your roommate now. Or suffer the consequences later. It's that simple. This will be the closest person to you for the next year. Discuss cleanliness, company in the room, respect for each other's space and privacy, and anything else that is necessary NOW.
3. Get your technology access issues addressed before classes start. Find out the campus network info, and make sure your computer can access it.
4. DO NOT go credit crazy. While many credit card companies have been prohibited from lurking on new students on college campuses, still be mindful of any offers for credit cards. If you must, have an emergency card (preferably one tied to your parents account) so that you can use it for necessities (flights home, etc.). Start good financial practices NOW!
5. Remember why you are here. It's not to join a sorority or fraternity, meet a husband or wife, play sports, sing/act or whatever else....you are here to GRADUATE. From the first to last day you need to remind yourself of this.
6. Keep your parents informed and aware of your academic and personal progress. Per the FERPA, universities (including professors and administrators) are prohibited from sharing personal information with parents, including grades (yes...I know..but YOU pay the bills..we get it). To circumvent this, have your child sign the appropriate forms allowing you access to this info. It saves a lot of headaches for you all later.
Keep these things in your mind at all times and you are well on your way to a great start to the school year. Now, remember this doesn't include the academic issues you will face, and the numerous personal ones either. It is a great start though to the best time of your life...ENJOY!
For many of you, freshman move-in and orientation has already completed, and you are awaiting the first day of class. For the rest of you, get ready, stay calm (and sane), and safe travels!!
As you begin a new adventure in college, it's important that you know a few important things before you even step foot inside a classroom. Parents, this goes for you too. Read this, remember this, preach this, practice this. It will help the rest of your college experience run a lot smoother and drama free. After all, "college IS the best time of your life." I would pay money to be able to do it all over again right now. My parents told me that when they dropped me off in Charlotte 16 (ouch) years ago. How right they were (for once)!!
I joke, but there are a lot of things my parents left me with that day that helped me. So as I impart knowledge to the next generation of global leaders, I'll share these nuggets with you as well:
1. Know your surroundings...at ALL times. Being in Washington, DC, we have students from all over the world. I can't explain how many times I've heard students claim "I'm from {Chicago, ATL, Charlotte, LA, Miami, NY, etc.}." At the end of the day, Rakim said it best, "it ain't where you're from, it's where you're at." Translation: Your new environment is NOT your home environment. Don't get comfortable and don't think that you are immune to crime because you are on a college campus. Be alert and be aware. Don't walk around at night alone (campus escorts are on every campus), stay in groups, and DO NOT...DO NOT walk around with earbuds in your ear not paying attention to anything or chatting away on the phone.
2. Make a good connection with your roommate now. Or suffer the consequences later. It's that simple. This will be the closest person to you for the next year. Discuss cleanliness, company in the room, respect for each other's space and privacy, and anything else that is necessary NOW.
3. Get your technology access issues addressed before classes start. Find out the campus network info, and make sure your computer can access it.
4. DO NOT go credit crazy. While many credit card companies have been prohibited from lurking on new students on college campuses, still be mindful of any offers for credit cards. If you must, have an emergency card (preferably one tied to your parents account) so that you can use it for necessities (flights home, etc.). Start good financial practices NOW!
5. Remember why you are here. It's not to join a sorority or fraternity, meet a husband or wife, play sports, sing/act or whatever else....you are here to GRADUATE. From the first to last day you need to remind yourself of this.
6. Keep your parents informed and aware of your academic and personal progress. Per the FERPA, universities (including professors and administrators) are prohibited from sharing personal information with parents, including grades (yes...I know..but YOU pay the bills..we get it). To circumvent this, have your child sign the appropriate forms allowing you access to this info. It saves a lot of headaches for you all later.
Keep these things in your mind at all times and you are well on your way to a great start to the school year. Now, remember this doesn't include the academic issues you will face, and the numerous personal ones either. It is a great start though to the best time of your life...ENJOY!
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Black History Month Tribute
I'm back after a quick hiatus! As part of February, I'll also be spotlighting an African-American who contributed significantly to science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Since this is my area, I have to pay homage to those who made it possible for the world to have some of the technology we have today. Below are the first two days of spotlights...enjoy!!
February 1-
Dr. Mark Dean
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