Alcorn welcomes the Class of 2022 during Weekend of Welcome
A large group of new Braves has made their way to Alcorn State University.
The freshman class of 2022 began their journey as college students Friday, Aug. 17 during the University’s Weekend of Welcome. Students from around the state, country, and world flooded campus residence halls in preparation of their next educational chapter.
Newcomers were met by alumni volunteers, students leaders and university staff who helped the students and their parents move into their rooms.
Getting the full college experience is on Timothy Downs' to do list, but the President's Excellence Scholarship recipient knows that earning a degree in four years is the primary goal. He reflected on the commitment it took for him to receive the scholarship.
"Although I played sports in high school, hitting the books was always at the top of my list of priorities," said Downs, an Ocean Springs, Mississippi native. "There were a lot of long nights of studying and dedication to my books that led me to achieve the scholarship."
Attending a historically black college or university was Mya Gillmore's goal when pursuing colleges. After some encouragement from family members, with one being an Alcorn graduate, the Illinois native knew that choosing Alcorn was the right move."
"When I was looking for a school, I was looking for an HBCU to attend, so my family members suggested that I attend Alcorn because it has a family-oriented vibe on campus," said Gillmore. "My aunt graduated from here, and she said that it is an outstanding school. If she said it's a good school, then I trust her."
Jaden Smith, a Pompeii, Florida native and new member of the Braves baseball team, is excited about forming bonds with his new classmates. He also looks forward to his newfound independence.
"Meeting new people and making life-long friends are some of the things that I am looking forward to," said Smith. "I look forward to the freedom that I will have and enjoying my college experience."
A change of scenery was Kamara Allen's motivation for leaving her home in New Orleans, Louisiana for Alcorn. Although she was a bit anxious on her first day of college, she still looks forward to the next phase of her life.
"I'm nervous because I'm in a different environment far away from home, but it is also exciting," said Allen. "I wanted to venture away from my comfort zone and see new things. I'm excited to start this new journey."
Click here for more information about Alcorn’s Weekend of Welcome.
