Is Now the Time to Consider an HBCU? 6 Signs it Might Be
We’re nearing Election Day (November 5th), and our final candidates are Donald Trump, who represents the Republican party, and Vice President Kamala Harris, who represents the Democratic party. If elected, Harris, who graduated from Howard University and is a member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, will become the first Black female president of the United States.
With an HBCU alumna running for what many consider the most important job in the country, you may wonder if going to an HBCU can provide you with the same opportunities to thrive in your future career.
If you’re still deciding on a school, here are 6 signs you should attend an HBCU.
#1 HBCUs are affordable
If you want an affordable, high-quality college education, enroll at an HBCU. According to the U.S. News & World Report, most HBCUs are typically less expensive than other four-year private and public nonprofit universities. For example, for the fall 2022 semester, in-state tuition and fees for Florida A&M University was $17,725, compared to Florida State University, which was $21,683.
Also, more than 70% of HBCUs are eligible for the federal Pell Grant, according to the UNCF. Unlike loans, Pell Grants are educational funds that do not have to be repaid. Plus, when applying to an HBCU, you can use the Common Black App to save significant money on application fees.
#2 HBCUs are very diverse
While HBCUs were initially created as a haven for Black people seeking higher education, these institutions welcome students from all races, sexual orientations, ethnicities, religions, and cultural backgrounds. Having a diverse campus allows for cross-cultural learning with different perspectives.
#3 HBCUs have exceptional networking opportunities
By becoming an HBCU student, you’ll get access to an extensive network of professionals, alumni, professors, staff, and students who are more than willing to share their knowledge and resources to help you thrive.
During my month-long internship at Alabama A&M University, I connected with several public health professionals who provided a wealth of knowledge that I have applied to my professional career.
#4 HBCUs have unforgettable homecomings
HBCUs are all about school spirit, especially during the weekend or week-long homecoming events. During the fall semester, there will be a host of concerts (often with big-name artists), fashion shows, comedy shows, step shows (for sororities and fraternities), tailgates, football games, and much more you can enjoy. You won’t find another homecoming that’s quite like an HBCU homecoming.
I once attended Alabama State University’s homecoming in 2019, and it was an unforgettable experience. It felt like a true concert experience, and the energy in the building was amazing. So, even if you don’t attend an HBCU for your college education, I highly recommend going to a homecoming or two just for the experience.
#5 HBCUs create well-rounded graduates
When you cross that stage during graduation, you’ll have everything you need to succeed as a professional in your field. In fact, it’s been revealed that Black HBCU grads are better prepared for life beyond college and are more engaged at their jobs than non-HBCU graduates. Also, Black HBCU graduates are more likely to thrive financially and purposefully than non-HBCU graduates.
#6 HBCUs have the best student experience
With its push for diversity and supportive network of alumni, staff, and professors, it’s no surprise that many minority students feel that HBCUs provide the best student experience. HBCUs often cater to the unique needs and experiences of African American students, so this demographic often feels safe and supported in these environments.
While I wasn’t a full-time student at Alabama A&M, I did take a few classes there and at Tennessee State University, and I can honestly say that my experiences at these HBCUs were significantly different from those at my alma mater, the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB).
While I enjoyed my time at UAB, it didn’t offer the same Black cultural experience as the HBCUs, and it’s just not something you can’t fully get from a predominantly White institution (PWI).
Ready to consider an HBCU?
Overall, it’s safe to say that HBCUs are great contenders for your college experience. They provide many opportunities to help you academically thrive and get the knowledge and experience to succeed once you graduate.
The first step in considering an HBCU is researching and learning about them. Appily's college search tool allows you to filter by categories that matter most to you. See HBCUs, Test Optional and Need Blind Colleges, and so much more with a single click.
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