‘Tis the season for HBCU homecomings… When the leaves change colors, the tailgate vittles get tastier and the bands polish up their choreo for battle!
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This is the time of year when our friends who attended PWIs truly question that decision. But HBCUs are much more than homecomings. Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have provided and continue to provide crucial centers for education, empowerment, and community for Black students. Founded during a time when segregation kept many African Americans from accessing college educations, HBCUs became the places where Black students could obtain a valuable education, while also celebrating Black culture within a safe place to commune.
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That strong legacy continues today, with HBCUs continuing to fulfill the dual role of educating and empowering our future leaders. With smaller class sizes, supportive faculty, and strong alumni networks, HBCUs offer students the resources necessary to excel both personally and professionally, while also strengthening the legacy of excellence in Black communities.
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If you went to an HBCU, tell us in the comments where you went and what you loved about the experience!
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Here’s our list of 10 reasons why it’s HBCUs over everything! And check out our friends at OkayPlayer for another 10 reasons!
1. Incredible Alumns!
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With Howard alum Vice President Kamala Harris currently running for the highest elected office in the United States, HBCUs have serious bragging rights. Other outstanding HBCU alums include Chadwick Boseman (Howard), Spike Lee (Morehouse), Debbie Allen (Howard) and K. Michelle (FAMU), just to name a few.
2. HBCU Homecomings
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We know we said HBCUs are more than just homecomings BUT you really don’t want to miss homecoming. Whether you are turning up at the homecoming game or gathering with friends at the tailgate, attending a concert or reuniting with an old flame, HBCU homecomings are simply unmatched.
3. Marching Bands
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HBCU marching bands attract some of the best musicians in the country. Not only can they play your favorite artists’ songs on classical instruments — they can play them while all out dancing in formation! There’s a reason why many of the best HBCU bands are in high demand for Thanksgiving and New Year’s parades!
4. Cultural Heritage
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HBCUs celebrate African American culture and history, fostering a deep sense of pride and identity.
5. Great Networking Opportunities
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Alumni networks and career fairs are often robust, providing valuable connections in various fields.
6. Scholarship Opportunities
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Whether academic, athletic, or musical, HBCUs offer a wealth of scholarship opportunities.
7. Small Class Sizes
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Many HBCUs offer smaller class sizes, allowing for more personalized attention from professors.
8. Community
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The friendships fostered at HBCUs often create lifelong bonds
9. Exceptional Entrepreneurs
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HBCUs have produced a number of exceptional entrepreneurs like Dr D’wayne Edwards (an HBCU president) who just launched a shoe line with Target.
10. Fun Traditions
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Each school does different things starting from freshman year to instill pride in students
