My experience at BSU has been great! Being a transfer student, I was hesitant in the beginning about joining different organizations and getting involved on campus. But over the years, I have developed some really good relationships with students, faculty members and staff that not only helped to grow within the University, but in life as well.
I actually transferred from Frostburg State University after my freshman year after a serious brain injury playing football and BSU was my choice of universities to attend in the area. I would suggest to someone considering the university to really get involved on campus, whether it's a sport, group or organization. It makes the entire college experience that much better.
My main motivation for graduating was showing my mom that I can overcome circumstances and challenges that I may have brought on myself. Also, my motivation was to start a legacy in my family by being the first male in both my mom's and dad's families to earn a bachelor's degree.
The professor that has had an impact in my life is, hands down, Professor Haynes. She has watched me from when I first came to BSU, lost and confused, worked with me throughout the years, and helped build me up so I could start being proud of myself. She has always left her office door open for me to ask questions and get advice. I thank her so much for that.
The biggest challenge I faced pursuing my degree was a freak head injury at Frostburg State University my freshman year while playing in a football game. I hit head-to-head with one of my teammates and suffered a fractured skill (diagnosed as an epidural hematoma) which required brain surgery. I honestly wanted to give up after going through surgery and rehabilitation. I never thought I would be the same again. But I slowly built myself back up and I made it.
The BSU culture helped me know that I was accepted. I never felt like I did not belong. The extracurricular and service-oriented activities really kept me busy and kept me out of trouble once I got involved. After my head injury I was really lost and had no clue what I wanted to do with my life. Once I got involved on campus I started developing hobbies and things of that nature.
After graduation, I will be attending the University of Maryland University College (UMUC) for graduate school and pursue my master's in marketing. I also currently work at BB&T Bank and intern with the Washington Redskins Organization. I am currently pursuing a position within the Redskins Organization.
BSU has offered me service, support and knowledge in pursuing a successful career in public relations. I have taken full advantage of the doors that BSU has opened for me.
