Reflections from our 2020 Graduates
Our students have accomplished amazing feats that have moved Northeastern and Boston forward over the years. We at the John D. O’Bryant African American Institute know even more greatness will come from the class of 2020.
As you transition to the next chapter in your career, please share reflections on your time, experiences and next steps upon departing Northeastern.
- Share some of your experiences during your time at Northeastern
- Share the role the John D. O’Bryant African American Institute played in your intellectual, cultural and social preparation for the future
- Please tell us what’s next for you!? Have you already secured employment? Are you still looking for employment? Do you plan to go onto another degree program?
I would absolutely agree that my time at Northeastern University was a learning and developmental journey. I enjoyed working as a Graduate Assistant at the JDOAAI and I am grateful for having Dr. O’Bryant as a mentor and professor. Because of the Institute, I was also able to develop a close relationship with its wonderful staff and students. I am also grateful to have had the opportunity of working with Dr. Deb who constantly motivates me. Given this, my next step is to pursue a law degree, but before I do, I will be taking a year off. During this time, I will be studying for the GRE and I hope to work in the field of human services, nonprofit, management, government, or academia. During my time at Northeastern, I also played an active role in the Graduate Student of Color Collective (GSCCC) as the Treasurer/Vice President. I am also grateful for the opportunity as serving my peers as an MLK Fellow, Legacy Mentor, and a winner of the Roland E. Latham Oratory Competition.
Lastly, the Institute has played a vital role in my life, especially when it came to motivating me and keeping me on track. Because of the Institute, I was also offered the opportunity to experience “Bloody Sunday” in Selma, Alabama for the first time. For that reason, my cultural knowledge has improved, and I have added an annual activity to my calendar besides Black History Month. The Institute has also allowed me to meet new friends and network with professionals in my area of interest. Unfortunately, COVID-19 has spoiled my birthday and graduation which is making me worried. On the other hand, I am quite surprised that I have been receiving interview requests constantly. I recently interviewed for organizations such as WIC, Cambridge Children and Family, Bridgewell, etc. With that being said, I am currently in the process of waiting for a response from a well-known corporation in Foxborough, MA for an Executive Assistant position. In the end, I hope to hear back from them with the hopes of growing within the firm. I would also like to thank the Institute staff for all that they do and their passion to motivate students of color.