2nd Annual African-American Readiness Summit

SAN JOSE, CA- San Jose State University hosted its 2^nd  Annual African-American College Readiness Summit on November 14^th, 2014. There were approximately 321 middle and high school students visiting the San Jose State University campus. Located in the beautiful Morris Dailey Auditorium, students were led by facilitator Leon Beauchman, welcomed by Dr. Renee Barnett-Terry (Vice President for Student Affairs), Alex Donald (BSU President) and the keynote speaker, Byron Breland (President of San Jose City College).

Both middle and high school students took part in Session One, which was the panel. I took part in the panel for high school students. We answered questions that gave students some perspective on college life and after the students were able to ask their own personal questions. Session Two was the Activity/Topic. This session had options that varied from getting involved, preparation, 4-year track, Journalism & Mass Communications, exploring majors, career and Community College paths.

Being a volunteer at this event was so rewarding in not only that I was giving a tour and answering their questions about college, but by also showing these students that they can make it to college as well. I was afforded the opportunity to give the students hope, inspiration and advice to be successful. I love making a difference in the community where students need positive examples to influence encouragement. Children are our future and investing in their education, either by money or time, is creating more leaders!

Essence Ruth-Noel Sellers, also known as Lady Ma, is a senior at San Jose State University. She is a Communication Studies major and is minoring in RTVF. She is an aspiring disk jockey. She loves to spend her time doing self-expression activities such as writing poetry/spoken word, dancing, singing and theater arts.