Perfect HBCU experience for an assertive student August 20, 2026

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

There are two type of classes I took: arts & media and economics classes. The economic classes felt textbook guided, both professors expect for the students to be well prepared before class and talk in class about examples in which the concept could be applied. Personally, I didn't like this teaching style because you can't practice how each professor checks your learning and it puts a lot of pressure on the student to have a rigorous study schedule AND a structured curriculum. 3/4 professors were easy to contact and meet up with after class but the self-guided learning was a culture shock in its self.

On-site administration of your program

The program needs to be built out a little more. I think me and a couple of my peers share the experience of being dropped into school disoriented because of a lack of info. For example, at the end of my program I was told that there was a $200 processing fee for sending in my tuition online, there was a $50 fee for if my RA didn't check my room and another one if it was clean; I am a low income student so these details matter to me and weren't made aware until I attempted to finish the process. I will say that the representative were welcoming and open to meetings but I believe these details should be at the forefront of program expectation instead of hearing it from word of mouth. Additionally, I believe administration should include a peer mentor. The Spelman students were equally as sweet and welcoming but as someone who attend any event I could, I only started to integrate in the social community my last month in. Outside of social interaction, hearing the experience from a Spelman student and being able to ask questions of them would of put me so much more at ease.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived in McAlphin which was a positive experience mainly due to my roommate! (results may vary) My room was my safe space and my roomie went to dinner with me, took me out, overall made me love being in that space. A couple of things I need do need to speak to, my room faced the garage, so my room was lit all the time and sometimes were filled with voices. There are only three washing machines in the building which wasn't a problem until move out. The bathroom and common room were fine, though don't expect to cook your own food here.

I loved the taste of food and the dining hall workers, I will miss it when I go back to school. Some people experience indigestion here but that wasn't my experience. My experience was more the food didn't give me energy even though it tasted good and seemed nutritious.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I briefly mentioned this in my admin post, but to keep it short, I found my group through Spriggs-Burough events and Art After Dark. As soon as I met them my life became filled with people that I related to one many levels: being black, young, and queer.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

This was a highlight of my experience, I went to the on-campus gynecologist and the psychiatrist. It was beautiful being treated by black women they gave me everything I need.

I walked all over the city (including west end) and felt pretty safe. Just come in with pepper spray and you will be good.

I met the right people in the end, and for that, I'm thankful. I do consider if I should of explored international options a little bit more.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

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• Dorm

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• Local Students

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• Local Students

• Spriggs-Burough House
• Spelman's Exchange Cohort
• Roommate

• Pre-arrival information
• Orientation
• social assimilation

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