Countdown to Graduation.. Full of Excitement or Anxiety?

Graduation.. The countdown to walking across the stage for Undergraduate School at Bowie State University has begun. For those in the same situation, December 2014 (or whichever scheduled graduation date) cannot come any faster. Alongside this overdue excitement, comes with a world of anxiety. All of the "what-ifs" begin to come into play, and second guessing begins. Everyone wonders what the world has in store for them after graduation. A series of questions run through ones head such as "Where will I work?, Where will I live? Will I be successful? Should I go to Graduate school?". Many people do not realize that once completing post-secondary education, you have officially entered the adult working world. Realizing this sooner rather than later can have great impact one's future. I've realized that coming up with a plan is the best way to ensure success. It's okay for a plan to change but not having a plan cannot be a solution. I am excited to venture out and pursue a career in Public Relations/Business Marketing, but the journey to success is a bit longer than expected. I am ready to put forth effort to achieve all the goals I have set for myself. For all those in my same situation, I wish you all the luck and success in the world. Let us all find the right career path for ourselves, and become successful. 

Juneteenth: A Day Every African-American Should Know

        Yesterday, while having lunch with my roommate and best friend, we stumbled upon the topic of Juneteenth. We began this conversation, because my actual birthday is June 19th, which is the actual date for Juneteenth. For those who are unaware, Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration commemorating the ending of slavery in the United States. Based upon history, Juneteenth dates back to 1865. The Emancipation Proclamation was sign and became official on January 1st,1863. Although that was true, because of the lack of Union soldiers to enforce this, slavery continued in Texas and other areas until Union Soldiers arrived and delivered the news, hence becoming Juneteenth. Slavery continued for another two and half years in this area before becoming unconstitutional. On June 19th 1865,  Union soldiers, led by Major General Gordon Granger, traveled to Galveston, Texas with news that the war had ended and that the enslaved were now free. This day is very important to me personally, not just because it falls on my birth date, but because it showed the true beginning of freedom after slavery. This showed me that African Americans, were not given a chance to live their lives, without a delay from anyone. I believe every African American should be aware of the history and importance of Juneteenth.

Homecoming Week!! Where's Your School Spirit?

  As Bulldogs, we are all aware that Homecoming Week was last week (October 7-12th). During last week's Homecoming, there were endless activities scheduled to entertain students and alumni. Events ranging from a Comedy Show, Concert, Fashion Show, and Stepshow/Afterparty. As a current student here at Bowie State Univeristy, I witnessed first-hand the large volume of students showing their school spirit. At the same time I saw those who were bipassing and continuing onto their rooms. So many students sat out of this weeks events. This brought me to wonder..why? Homecoming is supposed to be a time of celebration and representation of your institution. What makes one not want to be involved or a part of the weeks' activities? Is it the cost to attend events? Is it the tight-schedule between that and Midterms? Either way there is a high-volume of students who lack school spirit. I believe that no matter the circumstances, we all should be grateful and take advantage to be at an institution of higher learning. Celebrating with those who came before and those whom are there with you. I'm all about school spirit, and showing support to the institution you are a part of. H-OMEC-OMING... it's Homecoming yall! Hope everyone enjoyed and got their money's worth.

Redskins Name Change? Never say Never

        Over the years, controversy of Washington D.C.'s own Redskins football name has brought fire to sports news. In past years, the issue was not taken seriously. In more more recent years, there have been more actions taken in attempt to get the name changed. Another attempt to have the name changed, the "changethemascot.org" website went up and into affect. An Oneida Nation leader called the team name a racial slur. The senior vice president of labor policy and government affairs has decided to meet up with some Oneida Nation leaders to discuss the future of the Redskins and the alleged "racial slurs." At this point the Oneida Nation and several supporters are not going to let this attempt to a name change go slowly. This is a fight that will be around longer than anyone can presume. Many Redskins fans explain whether their is a name change or not, the Redskins will forever be known as the Redskins. What do you think? Would you still be a die-hard Redskins fan, if they became the Washington Colonials? Think about the cause and state your claim. Every voice counts.

Govenment Shutdown? Is America Shut Down too?

 For those who aren't aware, the government went into shutdown on October 1st, 2013. The government went into shutdown because Congress could not agree on a spending plan for the fiscal year within the specified time frame. With this shutdown put into affect, thousands of citizens have been laid off and furloughed from their jobs. People out of work range from Congressmen, teachers, student interns, and government officials. Many Americans wonder how this will affect America in the long run. The longer Congress bickers over spending endeavors, the longer people will remain without pay which does not help unemployment. Alongside people who are out of work, certain departments will be closed until the House of Representatives and Senate come to some type of consensus. For example, a few Nationals Parks and Monuments closed due to the shutdown are Mount Rushmore, Lincoln Park, The Statue of Liberty, and Yellowstone Park. Although these attractions are closed down, aspects such as Social Security, The Postal Office, and the Military will continue to run as scheduled. The shutdown affects us as constituents either directly or generally. It is important as citizens of America to be aware of direct changes that are occurring and that may affect us as a country.