Guest Blogger: Netanya Onyilo, Spelman College
There’s nothing like walking in the yard and seeing an array of beautiful coils, braids, locs, and skin that glistens in the sun while music blasts in every corner. The utopia of a Historically Black College or University is a haven for students looking to excel in academics, post-graduate endeavors, and lifelong friendships.
As a first-generation student, attending Spelman College, the nation’s #1 HBCU, was a dream come true. The beginning of my Spelman journey was scary, yet exciting. Here are some HBCU tips I wish someone had shared with me before I walked through the gates.
Comparison is the Thief of Joy
When your peers are excelling in different fields, it’s easy to compare yourself to them and fall victim to the belief that you’re not doing enough. I’m here to tell you that you are! You have no idea what’s occurring beneath the surface in other people’s lives. Sometimes, the grass isn’t greener on the other side — it’s turf. Focus on your journey and know that you’re worthy of being in such an elite space.
Utilize the Career Center
After graduation, students enter the workforce, go to grad school, or take gap years. Whatever you choose to do, utilize your school’s career center to help plan your life after undergrad!
Starting freshman year, attend every career fair to get an idea of post-grad opportunities and what companies are looking for. The career center can also offer resume reviews, mock interviews, and headshots to prepare you for your pursuit of excellence.

By @joshshoots35mm on Instagram
Leave a Paper Trail
Sometimes when you go to the registrar’s office for assistance, they tell you to go to financial aid, then financial aid tells you to go to the student accounts office, and so on. This is often called the “runaround”, and it can be pretty frustrating. When this happens, it’s essential to keep a paper trail of who you spoke with, and the contents of the matter. I suggest following up via email after every interaction, so if you ever need proof, you have it.
Also, stay on top of the matter you need solved. You’re your own biggest advocate, and there are thousands of other students. If you need to be in that office every day until it’s resolved, be there bright and early!
Fail Hard and Fail Fast
Nothing worth having comes easy, and there will inevitably be speed bumps and potholes in your journey. It’s up to you to use those rock-bottom moments as a trampoline to bounce back better than ever. Ultimately, you’ll become a more disciplined and determined version of yourself. Embrace every low moment and acknowledge the lessons you learned from it.
In this new chapter, enjoy your unique HBCU experience and know you’re worthy of the opportunities and blessings coming your way! Continue to grow, shine, and uplift others as you climb.
How Collegeboxes Can Help With Your HBCU Journey
Like Netanya highlights, preparation is the key to taking advantage of all that HBCUs have to offer. Collegeboxes makes preparing for transitions easy. Whether you’re moving into your freshman dorm, traveling for an internship, or studying abroad, Collegeboxes is here to help every step of the way.