You Cannot Make an "A" Being Afraid to Make an "F"

What do I look like on paper? It has come to my attention that the criteria for admissions to graduate school has intimidated blacks to the point that they do not even apply. Let me share for a second. On paper, based on the admissions criteria I have no business being a third year Ph.D candidate in Criminology. I did not score well on the GRE, my undergraduate G.P.A. was below the required amount and I know that my writing skills were in need of serious attention. What I did know and have is AMBITION. I requested and made a (which I paid for ) visit to my school of choice and met with 15 of the faculty members. I expressed the need for a man like me to be a part of their program and how I would use their degree to affectionately make a difference. I had something that they would benefit from if they would take the chance of accepting me in lieu of the "paper trail" being the only measure they had to of me. I believe that we must have confidence, ambition and an attitude that is willing to step out on faith. We must be told no,we cannot assume and own failure without trying. There must always and will be a rule breaker or a first for everything. Who says that it cannot be you? Who says that you are defined by numbers such as standardized tests or grades. We have so much more to share with the world that it may take a little more, such as a face to face interview in order for us to get that opportunity to chase that dream. I say all this to say that the time has come for us to not be defined by admissions criteria alone, believe in yourself and do what it takes to get in the program. We cannot be afraid to be rejected without even applying. You cannot make an "A" being afraid to make and "F".

Proud of You

Why do we consistently fight amongst ourselves? I understand that graduate school is a competitive environment but we must not fall into the trap of competing against ourselves to the point of black sabotage. This will continue to separate us. Black graduate students must embrace the accomplishments of their colleagues and encourage them to continue chasing their dreams. We have to stop looking for whats wrong and acknowledge whats right. When a young brother or sister gets a little recognition we tend to question "why that person and not me?" Have you ever thought that it was your selfish attributes that may prevent others from recognizing you as a quality asset? Check yourself!! This is real folks, we have come from a long life of fighting and struggling to prove our worthiness but yet still have to hide our rewards from our own for feel that they may try and steal the joy. Do not let this happen!!

For those of you that are fortunate enough to receive recognition for your hard work I say Congratulations and I am proud of you!!