Meet Robert Cain Jr.
Robert Cain Jr. is Kiski’s 3rd CSA Award winner since the organization’s inception. Robert Jr. is from Pittsburgh Pennsylvania and grew up in the town called Wilkinsburg. Upon learning of Robert Jr. being a CSA Award winner, Kiski shared with founder Major Canady that he (Cain Jr.) from a very young age always knew he wanted to attend Kiski once he got to 9th grade. See below Robert Jr.’s thoughts on his time at Kiski:
“The Kiski School, it was the greatest experience of my life and I made true brothers there. The people and the things that I did at Kiski helped shape the projection that I hope for myself in the future. With the roles, places it’s taken me, and things learned, Kiski has helped me set up my life.”
As for many others, Kiski’s impact did not stop there! Here, Robert Jr. played four years of varsity basketball which afforded him the opportunity to continue his basketball journey at the college level while focusing on building a professional career to transition into once his playing days are over. We got a chance to ask Robert Jr. where he would be attending for college and why this choice:
“I chose Hamilton because of the great environment on campus and the basketball team that goes with the great academic institution. I plan to major in economics and also look into government and philosophy. I am choosing this path because I look to be a lawyer or work my way up to a CEO of a company one day.”
As with most college students, there are feelings of excitement along with nerves and fear of the unknown:
“I hope to continue to keep my basketball game at a high level and earn my degree. I look to find the best way to set myself up for success and I plan to be open to any opportunities. I’m looking forward to finding people with the same drive as me and who want to work just as hard as me so we can push each other. I’m most nervous about things not going as I hope but even with that I still believe in myself to figure things out.”
CSA lastly asked Robert Jr. is there something in particular he wants the audience to know about him. See his response below:
“I am mostly a self-driven person but when I’m able to work with people that have similar values and drives as me, I feel that anything in the world is possible.”
Please wish Robert the best of luck as he embarks on the best chapter of his life yet. Great luck Robert, we are rooting for you here at CSA!
Fun Facts:
· Youngest child of three
· Left-handed
· Loves rom-coms
Black Women’s History Month Celebration
India Heckstall
3/19/24
As Women's History Month unfolds, it's essential to highlight and celebrate the remarkable contributions of Black women throughout history. Their resilience, strength, and relentless pursuit of justice have shaped societies and inspired generations. Black women, spanning from activists and artists to scientists and political leaders, have left an indelible mark on every aspect of human endeavor. In honoring their achievements, it’s crucial to delve into the rich tapestry of Black women's history and acknowledge their invaluable contributions to higher education.
Black women have long played instrumental roles in fostering academic excellence, driving social change, and breaking down barriers. From trailblazing educators to visionary administrators, their contributions have profoundly impacted campuses across the globe. As we commemorate Women's History Month, recognizing and celebrating the profound impact of Black women in shaping the trajectory of postsecondary education becomes imperative.
Black women have actively advocated for policies that address systemic inequities in postsecondary education, including funding disparities, resource allocation, and supportive services. Figures like Dr. Ruth Simmons, the first African American president of an Ivy League institution (Brown University), has highlighted the necessity for greater investment in Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and minority-serving institutions (MSIs). Her leadership underscores the importance of equitable funding and support for institutions serving diverse student populations.
Furthermore, Black women policymakers and advocates have spearheaded efforts to reform higher education policies, aimed to better serve students from low-income backgrounds, first-generation college students, and other underserved communities. Figures like Dr. Angela Davis, a renowned scholar and activist, has championed policies addressing the root causes of inequality and promoting social justice in higher education. Her advocacy has centered issues such as student debt, campus diversity, and the criminalization of Black students.
Women leaders in the Congressional Black Caucus have championed legislation to increase funding for HBCUs and MSIs, reduce student loan debt, and expand financial aid access for low-income students. They have also tirelessly addressed systemic inequities in higher education, focusing on promoting diversity and improving retention rates among students of color. Their efforts have been instrumental in providing equitable opportunities for all students, particularly those from marginalized communities.
These women leaders have influenced my work in postsecondary education policy. As a senior policy analyst at a notable nonprofit organization in Washington DC, my work focuses on ensuring equitable access to higher education for marginalized communities. With a deep commitment to racial and social justice, I have dedicated my career to advocating for policies that address systemic barriers and promote inclusivity on college campuses. I will continue to tirelessly advocate for financial aid reform and to address the disproportionate burden of student loan debt on Black borrowers, particularly Black women. Remaining a vocal proponent of equity is crucial for me, especially considering that financial aid was necessary for me to afford and complete my college journey. I remain committed to illuminating the challenges encountered by underserved students and championing solutions that enhance the affordability and accessibility of higher education, with a particular focus on empowering Black and brown students.
I am delighted to be a part of the Canady Scholar-Athlete award, which provides scholarship awards, mentorship programs, and network building opportunities to students of color. Through initiatives like this, I aim to continue making significant strides in promoting access to higher education and empowering future generations to achieve their academic and career goals. As we commemorate Women's History Month, it is crucial to celebrate the remarkable achievements and contributions of Black women in higher education. Their resilience, scholarship, and leadership have not only transformed the policy landscape, but have also afforded countless students of color to pursue their dreams.
Celebrating Black History
Mighty Fine
2/22/24
To me, as a Black man, Black History Month is not just a chronological marker placed on our calendars. It’s a time for us to reflect upon the rich experience of resilience, triumph and achievements of Black people in America. We also shed a spotlight on our unparalleled contributions, celebrate the extraordinary and redefine our understanding of excellence.
As we delve into the narratives of scientists, artists, leaders, writers, advocates and trailblazers, we're not just learning about their achievements; we're opening our hearts and minds to the richness of the human experience. Discovering these journeys, we're inspired not only by the accomplishments but also by the unbreakable spirit that turned obstacles into stepping stones.
Black History Month reminds us of the stories that should never be relegated to the shadows for just one month. We should constantly uplift achievements that are sometimes overlooked or forgotten. It’s also a call to action to continue to learn about Black history and constantly share what you’ve learned. As an adult, I still get surprised by the things I wasn’t taught in school, and it further fuels my passion to continue to educate myself and others.
By celebrating the legacies of individuals who defied societal norms, and the unfounded limits placed on them, we recognize what it took for them to break these barriers. We must continue to pave the way for a future where everyone's story is recognized and celebrated.
Acknowledging the accomplishments of Black people shouldn’t just be honored by other Black people. Everyone should engage in an ongoing commitment to understanding, appreciating, and valuing the diverse perspectives that shape our collective society today. When we integrate this awareness into our educational institutions, workplaces, and daily conversations, we actively contribute to a society that values every voice and fosters inclusion and belonging.
My challenge to you, is to let this month be a catalyst for change, not just a one-time celebration but a spark that ignites consciousness all year long. As we recognize the brilliance of the contributions of Black people, let us pledge to carry this torch throughout the year, weaving acknowledgment of these contributions into the fabric of our daily lives and all the spaces we occupy.
Jordan Graham Charting His Own Path
Jordan Graham, Kiski’s first CSA award winner and current sophomore at Robert Morris University spent majority of his freshmen year doing what most freshmen do. “What do I want to do with my life? How do I get there?” So many questions and a new chapter away from home having to navigate his own path for the first time was challenging. That being said, Jordan did what most of us wait until our latter college years to do. He found himself a summer internship that provided some insight to his passions! After a busy 2023, we finally were able to catch up with one of CSA’s inaugural winners, see what he had to share below:
“This summer I interned at POISE Foundation in Pittsburgh, PA. POISE is a community foundation that makes grants to nonprofit organizations that seek to enhance the growth and self-sustainability of the Pittsburgh regions, African American community and areas of health, education, arts and culture.
My primary focus included marketing, social media, analysis, content creation, going to meetings, view applicants and event support. I contributed to their marketing strategy by creating content and post around the new POISE logo.”
It was neat to not only hear about Jordan’s experience but also some of his key takeaways. It seemed Jordan came away with not just technical and professional skills, but some life lessons and values were instilled along the way.
“I learned the importance of attention to detail, promptness, and giving back to people that look like me. I also learned how to read through different proposals to see what would fit their marketing needs. I can apply what I learned this past into the classroom, my work, and any career in the future.”
Jordan is currently majoring in business with a focus in marketing. His ultimate goal is to become a Chief Marketing Officer for a Fortune 500 company where he will be able to flex his ability to be creative, strategic, and lead other men and women in a positive and uplifting manner. His next move? How about London for his junior year of school?! Stay tuned for more Jordan Graham updates.
Jordan, we are so proud of you here at CSA and we cannot wait to see what is next. The entire community is rooting for you!
Fun Fact
Jordan has a passion for gardening.
First Generation College Students
Elgin Ford Jr.
1/2/2024
A conversation had at a First-Gen Anonymous Meeting
Elgin: “Hi, I’m Elgin.”
Group: “Hi, Elgin.”
Elgin: You know, until recently I didn’t think I’d ever realized what I had gone through and how my experiences that differed from some of my peers. I didn’t realize that I was a first-gen student; or survivor as I’ve heard it referred to as. There’s never an instruction manual to accomplishing goals nobody in your family has ever done before. It’s kind of like when you ask for help with your homework and you get the “oh this that new math!” response. It’s hard to successfully navigate a space with no help. Although, along the way you may find a friend or two who’s on the same journey (trauma bonding), in some regards, it’s a journey you take alone.
For me it was always about beating the statistics. Everyone in my family had graduated high school, so after walking across the stage in high school, it was a bit frightening not having a sibling or parent who could tell me EXACTLY what to expect from a traditional, 4-year degree experience, or at least try to guide me. The same thing happened when it came time for graduate school.
For those of you have just joined, I’m just sharing a bit about my experiences as a first gen student and was just about to go into some depth.
Outside of the statistics and research we can find online, there are a ton of variables, students often face. First and foremost is the financial burden; I wish I had someone to tell me about my options for financing school. My parents didn’t have high-level degrees that afforded them the opportunity maximize their incomes to be able save and pay for me to go to school; the national average for parental income for first-gen students is $41,000. I didn’t have an athletic scholarship. I didn’t know about “applying” for local and national scholarships; I thought they were more like sweepstakes or playing the lottery: just another 1-in-a-million wish. The ONLY two options I had were loans or enter the workforce, and my parents weren’t going to accept me not going to college. Don’t get me wrong, first gen-students are NOT the only ones who experience this, unfortunately. They are, however, more likely to experience crippling amounts of debt as compared to their second and third-generation graduate counterparts.
As we all know, concerns about paying for school isn’t the only financial concern. There’s a TON of non-tuition covered experiences that enrich and make your collegiate experience what it is. Things like study-abroad, outings with friends, getting a haircut/manicure, or even being able to eat something that isn’t included in your meal plan (‘cause we know how amazing dining hall food is). Some are fortunate enough to be met with scholarships or grants or other non-cumbersome financial support. However, there are some who end up needing to take the rout of the ever-so ridiculous student loans. This isn’t a race thing, but even if we do a breakdown further by demographics, it will also show even more disparity in experience; I guess we all really can’t win.
And seeing isn’t always believing and sometimes misery appreciates some company. Sometimes the pressures from family, the “you’re going to change the family trajectory,” adds to the stress and you don’t always notice it. How can I freely explore and take chances on random classes when that feels like a “waste of time,” or “won’t bring any value;” or how do I navigate the feeling of guilt when I choose to go out to the party of the year instead of studying for an exam that is 2 weeks away? How can I comfortably be a college student who is supposed to make mistakes, procrastinate, learn about myself, navigate unfamiliar cultural [predominately white] spaces when there are decades of a family legacy resting on my 18–22-year-old shoulders? Who’s supposed to help guide me through that?
Sometimes, it takes an “ah-ha” moment for you to realize what’s been happening to you. Kind of like the realization mid-way through the school year that the self-induced and familial pressures have led to the infamous imposter syndrome…and yes, it is a very, real thing. A moment where I question my purpose, belonging, and overall worth.
It's hard to capture the entirety of essence of the experience in a 5-minute intro; there are so many different variables any of us could all rattle off. Some of it seems made-up, but the domino effect it has can be immobilizing. Nevertheless, I managed to keep my head held high, cautious but truly unafraid to fail (maybe because I didn’t feel like it was an option). It was reassuring, but I had to dig deep and realize that I am my ancestors’ and parents’ wildest dreams; and maybe one day we will write that instruction manual.
But frfr, I preciate y’all letting me vent a little bit.
What Am I Thankful For
Major Canady
11/16/23
For as long as I can remember, my mother started a holiday tradition where every Thanksgiving, each family member would say something they are thankful for prior to eating. And for those that know me, I LOVE to eat and holding me back from food is the fastest way to my bad side! That being said, it wasn’t until I hosted a Friendsgiving at my parent’s house in 2019, a few months before COVID where this annual custom really hit home.
In November of 2019, I invited about 8-10 friends to my parent’s home in Pittsburgh PA. Friends came from all over, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, and Washington DC. After a fun Friday night and Saturday full of various activities, it was finally time to eat the massive spread my mom made. Can’t say she had much help from my dad haha. However, on brand, my parents said no one could eat until we all said something we were thankful for. Little did I know, the next half hour would be full of tears, prayers, hugs, and eventual laughter. After everyone had their turn, it made me realize something. I will get to the lesson learned in a bit.
A few months later COVID-19 happened. The world was shut down and people were dying left and right. People old, people young, black, white, Hispanic, etc., rich, middle class, poor, COVID-19 had no prejudice. The world was shook. This was taking place while my friend group was finishing master programs, residencies, internships and other higher education opportunities. For those who have lived long enough, you know once you start to hit those mid to late twenties, things around you start to change. Parents get older, childhood classmates pass away before they see thirty, inherited diseases and “family curses” start to rear their heads, financial responsibility becomes a reality and suddenly, we all realized we and the people around us are not as invincible as we thought. All the things you are shielded from as a child, is no longer hidden from you. You’re no longer hidden from the world. And ISH GETS REAL.
I say all of that to say this. What am I thankful for? I am thankful for my parents. I am thankful that my mother and my father are still here because there are so many people that wish they had one more phone call, one more movie night, one more home cooked meal. I am sorry for the times I take the two of them for granted because our parents are something that can never be replaced. Parents for everyone can be different, for some it’s our grandparents, other it’s our aunts, uncles, sports coach, cousin, teacher, etc. Enjoy every moment and show gratitude. I am thankful for my sister. She is the best friend I never knew growing up I would need. I am so proud of the strong beautiful woman she is becoming. I am thankful for my friend group, I love yal so much and I brag all the time that NO ONE has a better friend group than I do. I cannot go into names because unlike most (haha jk) I was blessed with a ton of friends and I do not want yal coming after me because I didn’t name everyone. But for my circle when you all read this, just know yal are thorough. MOST IMPORTANTLY, I am thankful that God has not treated me the way I have treated him at times. I am forever thankful for the grace and mercy that I have received over the years. And I am thankful because I know the best of my life is ahead of me, and I am thanking God in advance for that. All good things I have ever received and will receive is because of HIM. And I thank you Lord for trusting me with CSA and pray you continue to use me to give back to our youth.
Wrapping up now, I promise. For that lesson I learned at Friendsgiving, check on your friends, including the strong ones. I don’t care how good things seem on the outside, a simple “how are you?” can go a long way. As the young folks these days say, “life be lifing.” and it is our duty as brothers and sisters to each other to CHECK IN. And it is ok to not always be ok, and everyone is going to have their turn. Be there for those you love while you can.
In closing, I would be lying if I said the first three years of 2020 have been great. It has been scary. There has been permanent loss, lessons learned, friendships ended, relationships gone, social injustice, fractured families, diagnosis handed out amongst other things. However, God has made sure there has been life wins, new friendships, new relationships, social justices, change, healing, and if you are reading this, YOU ARE STILL HERE. Hope everyone enjoyed their Thanksgiving!
Black Youth, College, and Mental Health
Christin Smith
10/24/23
Black youth are stripped of their innocence and emotional needs within and outside the Black community. This treatment is due to living in an anti-Black world, which alters Black youth's experiences and has significant implications for their mental health. The U.S. Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention reported that suicide rates among Black youth aged 10 - 24 increased from previous years by 19.2%.
As Black youth navigate their identities inside their families and with their peers, their needs are sometimes left invisible. In many cases, they deal with restrictions from parents, peers, community members, and the larger society that regulates their access to choices. One of these choices may be if they should go to college immediately when they turn 18.
For some odd reason, people expect 18-year-old people to have the wisdom of a 65-year-old when they have lived in a world where their choices are made for them in most cases. There is a lack of empathy for Black youth as they navigate going to college and the challenges they face. Some are the first to go to college, some are under pressure as legacies of their families at a particular college, and for some, college is a way to attempt to change their economic status.
At 18 years old, some Black youth are moving states away from their families and do not have the emotional, mental, or financial support needed. No one explains or understands the microaggressions, anti-blackness, homophobia, ableism, and classism that Black youth can experience on all college campuses, even Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Black youth generally walk an odd line of people making them invisible and hyper-independent. Within Black communities, our youth often do not get to be children due to a number of issues directly related to racism. When Black youth express themselves, they face the backlash of being "soft" or not understanding because they are young.
Black youth struggle with their mental health being accommodated. In the Black community, mental health topics have just started to be discussed openly. This is mainly due to the historical racist nature of the mental health field. The older generations tell the Black youth to push through all problems. I hold space for previous generations who did not have access to the resources we have today in mental health, but we all have to do a better job supporting the needs of Black youth and their mental health as they navigate college. It is not enough to keep telling Black youth to push through this structure and never acknowledge their mental health needs.
We need solutions that are not about silently holding in our feelings and emotions. Black youth who are navigating college need community support that allows them to fall apart and that does not perpetuate perfectionism onto them at the cost of their mental health.
What Black youth need who are entering college is empathy and a diversity of mental health professionals on their college campus because not all Black youth have the same needs. Our Black youth deserve to fall apart, fail, not understand, and be supported with the proper community and professional care as they navigate their lives.
Our Black youth are in heavy political times where significant laws have been made or overturned that negatively impact their body autonomy and access to health and education. It is essential for us to create communities of empathy for them that hold space for their imperfections and safe spaces for them to get assistance for their mental health.
Meet William Mitchell
William Mitchell is our first CSA winner that is not a Pittsburgh area native. William is from Baltimore Maryland and came to Pittsburgh by way of the Kiski School. William graduated from the same high school that CSA Founder, Major Canady also earned his high school diploma from. William started off his freshmen year at another school, but wanted to find somewhere that was little more aligned with his wrestling future and academic goals. That is how he came across The Kiski School. This was the best decision William could have made not only for academic reasons, but more importantly his social development. See below William’s thoughts on his three year journey at Kiski:
“My experience was life-changing because it helped me create relationships with new friends and help make new connections with people around the United States. The Kiski School prepared me for the next phase of my life because the school helped me become more social.”
During his senior campaign, William committed to continue his wrestling career at Washington and Jefferson College located in Washington Pennsylvania. Along with wrestling, William will be studying Exercise Science. See below why he made this college choice and his field of study:
“I chose this college because this school has small classes and they will help me out a lot academically as far as extra help and personal one-on-one learning. My major is exercise science and I want to be a personal trainer when I grow up. I want to find a way to help people reach their physical wellness goals and tell them what they need to do to help them achieve it. Also, I’m looking forward to D3 wrestling. I really want to leave my mark and let people know that I’m serious about what I do in wrestling.”
CSA then asked William is there something in particular he wants the audience to know about him. See his response below:
“I’m like a pineapple, rough on the outside but sweet on the inside when she gets to know me. Some people look at me and think that I am a mean person but once they talk to me they really enjoy being around me.”
Please wish William the best of luck as he embarks on the best chapter of his life yet. Great luck William, we are rooting for you here at CSA!
Fun Facts:
· Really loves cats
· Enjoys playing FIFA and wants to play pick up soccer in college
Meet Enysah Roberts
Enysah Roberts was born in Hershey Pennsylvania and grew up in Monroeville PA, a small town right outside of the Pittsburgh area. With so many viable high school options, Enysah chose to attend a college preparatory, all girl school in the Pittsburgh area called, The Ellis School. On top of being a four-year honor roll student, she was a multi-sport athlete, playing basketball, soccer, and FLAG FOOTBALL! Yes, flag football and according to her, it is now her favorite sport. But what set Ellis apart and what she loved most was the community feeling it provided.
“My experience at Ellis was very enjoyable. With it being such a small school, I felt that I got a more intimate high school experience than most people who are at bigger schools. I was able to make connections with other students and teachers that I wouldn't have been able to make anywhere else.” Enysah stated.
The cozy and family feel that The Ellis School provided Enysah also helped her as she made her college decision. This Fall, Enysah will be attending the prestigious Case Western Reserve University in Ohio!
“I chose this school because of the many research opportunities in medicine that’ll be available due to the number of hospitals on campus and the location is not too far but not too close to home. The campus is beautiful and it's quite a small school so I think I’ll feel comfortable here.”
There, she will be majoring in biochemistry while on a pre-med track. Enysah’s goal four years from now is to be on her way to medical school with the hopes of someday figuring out what capacity she wants to operate in. Some of her early possibilities are being a surgeon, paramedic or pathologist but she is open to seeing where her journey takes her.
CSA asked Enysah what she is most excited and nervous about as she gets ready to head off to Case Western Reserve University next month. See her response below:
“I am really looking forward to the freedom and independence that comes with college. I would think I am a really independent person already so I would thrive in that aspect of college. I’m also really excited to meet all kinds of new people that will make a big impact in my life. I am nervous about the academic rigor of Case Western and being able to assimilate to the environment there.”
Please wish Enysah the best of luck as she embarks on the best chapter of her life yet. Great luck Enysah, we are rooting for you here at CSA!
Fun Facts:
· Can do the “worm”
· Christmas is her favorite time of the year
· Huge Mac Miller Fan!
Meet Savion Stroud
Savion Stroud was born about 10 minutes outside the city of Pittsburgh and grew up in the Moon Valley area. However, Savion’s high school experience was much different than those he grew up with. He went on to attend a boarding school in the state of New Hampshire and while being away from home and his parents made for a rough freshmen year, Savion eventually adapted to the challenges his new home presented.
“I went to boarding school in Concord New Hampshire at a placed called St. Paul’s. There was a strong learning curve during my freshman year but after that I saw it to be the best thing that I have ever done. One of the major ways it prepared me for college was already being away from home for four years of my life and knowing how to live with roommates and also other people in my dorm in general.” Savion stated.
While at St. Paul’s high school, Savion was a part of the basketball program all four years! After a successful high school career, he is continuing his run to play at the collegiate level at Colby College where he is going to be studying Psychology with the goal of transitioning into Sports Psych. Savion’s goal is to one day work with college and NBA level athletes to help them overcome their psychological barriers and make them more equipped to handle the inevitable adversity that comes with life and sports.
CSA asked Savion what he is most excited and nervous about as he gets ready to head off to Colby College next month. See his response below:
“I’m looking forward to the basketball season or really the first couple times we play as a team so I know how I compare and if it is realistic for me to start in my freshman year. I am most nervous about meeting new people but I haven’t had a problem with that in the past so I believe I will be ok.”
Please wish Savion best of luck as he embarks on the best chapter of his life yet. Great luck Savion!
Fun Facts:
· Loves to play chess
· Huge reader, particularly philosophy books
· Even though he is heading to college he still loves to order chicken tenders and fries no matter where he goes
Filling in the Gaps: CSA’s Commitment to Mental Wellness
While organizing and starting up CSA, we were cognizant of a major gap that is commonly left untouched in the black community. That empty space is mental health and wellness. To combat that, we brought aboard our Wellness Counselor, Davon Bryan.
Bryan is a Washington DC native who attended the College of Southern MD where he pursued a degree in business. It was not until years later, after working in the finance world, he realized his true passion. “In 2014 I recognized and embraced my passion for working with individuals who face developmental challenges and that is what motivated me to pursue a role as a Mental Health Clinician in the DC area” Bryan shared with CSA.
As a Certified Mental Health Clinician, Bryan works with individuals with co-occurring disorders, as well as developmental challenges. He provides supportive services to aid individuals to explore challenges, solutions, and resolutions; in addition to coping skills, resources, and advocating on their behalf. His notable deep compassion for showing-up for the individuals to which he serves, contributed to various MVP and Team Player Awards at his current place of work, Umbrella Therapeutic Services.
Bryan shared his thoughts on CSA and his role, “I respect the work CSA is doing and the deep passion that is shared with for the students we serve. My first-year experience with the organization and its’ scholars was truly empowering. The scholars are extremely driven and I saw an opportunity to help grow them as they embark upon their own paths.”
We are excited to have Bryan on board as we continue to strive to elevate our scholars and giving them a much-needed outlet that is not always available. Click on our “CSA Team” page to dive into more detail on Bryan’s role and background.
Over the next coming weeks, our “Black Voices Blog” will be releasing a think piece on mental health in the black community, particularly for those students transitioning from high school to college. Stay tuned, this will be a good one.
Inaugural Winner Lands West Coast Internship
Desirae Nance, a Chemical Engineering major at the prestigious HBCU, Hampton University just completed a challenging yet rewarding freshmen year in her first stint away from home. The most exciting part came towards the end!
After a conversation with her CSA assigned mentor, Tibra Wheeler, she realized that although just a freshmen, it is never too soon to chase her dreams. That is when Desirae started to research and came across an interesting opportunity in Irvine California. After looking into things and ultimately applying, Desirae was ecstatic to learn she had been offered the chance to accept an internship at the UC Irvine Summer Research Undergraduate Fellowship!
The program involves eight weeks of faculty-mentored research, graduate school preparation workshops, scholarly research skills training, communication and well-being workshops. Desirae also shared with CSA that she will be presenting a final presentation at the end of the summer on her findings to complete the experience.
Desirae gave credit to her CSA mentor for pushing her and imparting wisdom when applicable. She also credits the organization for connecting her to someone who looks like her. A strong African American woman in the STEM field could not have been a better match. Desirae stated below:
“The mentor I received was impactful because she was also a STEM major. This allowed me to see and learn about her pathway, while also helping look for various internships.”
Desirae, we are so proud of you at CSA and excited about what is to come next. If you’re reading this, we will keep you abreast of Desirae’s journey as a future black, female chemical engineer.