Graduation 2024 Edition

3

About the GRADUATION edition

Production of this year’s graduation print edition was done by The A&T Register staff.

Students wrote stories and created the layout specifications for this publication.

The A&T Register is the award-winning newspaper and website of record for North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. The newsroom is located in General Classroom Building 328.

Email: atregister@ncat.edu

Editor-in-Chief: Rosegalie Cineus

Managing Editor: Kamryn Jackson

Art Design Director: Khari Obichere

Senior Editor: Kaila Collier

Editors/Reporters: Mattie Moore, Aniya Misher, Dasia Williams, Ka’Juan Durer, Shemaiah Thomas, Gabby Heyward, Michael Cartwright, Caulin Avery, Aniyah Beck, Ashton Griffith, Nicole Neal, Haley Pender, Jasmine Moore, Gabby Howard, Maya Barber

Photographers: Armani Ross, Jmya Frazier, Kaiya Douglas

Social Media: Teren McNeill

Digital Media Producer: Gabriel Woodard

Interim Adviser: Jennifer Fernandez

Editor-In-Chief & Managing Editor letter

Greetings Aggie,

It is now the end of the 2023-2024 academic year, and I congratulate all of you for making it to the end of the semester. I am proud of the efforts we have made, as Aggies in pursuing our dreams and careers.

This print edition surrounds the theme of graduation as this is our last print of the school year. We wanted to highlight different aspects of what that means and highlight A&T students who are graduating this semester, alumni, and graduate students at A&T alike. The staff worked hard to bring their stories to life in a way that reflected the theme, so I hope you all enjoy this last print edition. As I look back on my time here at A&T, I am forever grateful for the things I have learned, the experiences I’ve had, and the relationships I’ve made along the way.

As a student part of the class of ‘24, this is a huge moment. From graduating during the height of the pandemic in 2020 to starting our freshmen years of college completely virtual/different than the norm, we have endured a lot and have made it to the finish line. There are many things we have learned as undergraduates and as we prepare to venture into the real world and start a new chapter, my wish is that we all remember to enjoy our moments and celebrate the wins now.

Celebrate your graduation, and brag about yourself, we deserve it. It is not easy to push through all of the things we have to get here, so let us be proud of ourselves and the work we have put in. Don’t forget the community here and remember that despite all of us going our separate ways and starting new journeys, wherever they may lead, we will always be Aggies.

I cannot wait to see what we all do next and best of luck and support to the Aggies of the next generation! You all will do amazing because Aggies Do!

Signing off with Aggie Pride, Rosegalie Cineus, 2023-2024 Editor-in-Chief of The A&T Register

Being your managing editor has been nothing short of amazing. I’m grateful to have met many different people and have a family at N.C. A&T.

As I sit back and reflect on my four years at N.C. A&T, sometimes I can’t believe all it has done for me. I’ve gotten to go places I’ve only dreamed of, made so many connections, and discovered a passion I didn’t even know I had.

Sometimes I think about how different life would be if I chose another university. But I can confidently say there’s nothing I’d rather be, besides an Aggie.

Signing off with Aggie Pride, Kamryn Jackson, 2023-2024 Managing Editor of The A&T Register

The Decline of DEI in the Job Market for HBCU Students

By Michael Cartwright theYARD Lead Reporter

In recent years, diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) have become increasingly important topics in the job market, with companies striving to create more diverse workforces reflective of society.

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have played a crucial role in providing higher education opportunities for Black students, but the decline of DEI initiatives poses significant challenges for these students as they enter the job market.

“An element of the decrease of DEI was the priority shift of the corporate market,” Laila Rahman-Latta, a senior visual arts student said.

Despite initial efforts to prioritize DEI, some companies have shifted their focus towards other objectives due to various reasons such as financial constraints, changes in leadership, or shifts in market dynamics.

According to a 2023 report on diversity, equity and inclusion by DDI, since its 2020 survey, there has been an average 18% decrease in the number of leaders who support the overall DEI efforts of their company.

An article by The New York Times titled, “Facing Backlash, Some Corporate Leaders Go ‘Under the Radar’ With D.E.I.,” says that critics argue some D.E.I. programs can unfairly eliminate Caucasian and Asian people from hiring processes.

Without clear metrics and accountability mechanisms, companies may struggle to maintain their commitment to DEI, allowing unconscious biases and systemic barriers to persist.

“I believe an element is underrepresentation, being that we believe few opportunities are not possible

due to lack of leadership from Black people,” said Jeremy Gibson, a senior chemistry student at A&T.

Without proactive efforts to promote diversity in hiring and promotion practices, HBCU graduates may continue to face barriers to advancement within organizations, limiting their access to leadership positions.

DEI initiatives often provide valuable support networks and resources for underrepresented groups in the workplace. The decline of these initiatives may leave HBCU students feeling isolated and unsupported in predominantly white corporate environments.

The lack of diversity in the job market can have long-term implications for HBCU students’ career trajectories, affecting their earning potential, job satisfaction, and overall professional growth.

“Speaking for those who want to work in corporate, some change is imperative, ” shared Alaina Lopez, a biology pre-med student.

Employers should actively seek out partnerships with HBCUs to strengthen pipelines for diverse talent and provide opportunities for students to gain real-world experience through internships and mentorship programs.

The decline of DEI initiatives in the job market poses significant challenges for HBCU students, limiting their opportunities for professional advancement and success.

To address these challenges, companies need to recommit to diversity, equity and inclusion, and HBCUs need to continue advocating for their students and fostering partnerships with employers committed to creating inclusive workplaces.

Only through collective action can we create a job market that truly reflects the rich diversity of our society.

‘Dear A&T’: Do you know your Alma mater?

By Gabrielle Heyward theYARD Editor

With graduation looming around the corner, students will hear a special 90-second song played at the monumental ceremony known as the North Carolina A&T Alma mater.

An Alma mater is the official song of a school and represents where one has attended or graduated, with the Latin term meaning “fostering mother.”

A&T’s specific school song is titled “Dear A&T” which was written by Susan B. Dudley, wife of the second president, James Dudley. The composer for the music was Charles E. Stewart, director of instrumental and vocal music at N.C. A&T from 1909 to 1917.

As traditions have evolved, drastically changing during COVID-19, the importance of learning and singing the Alma mater has dwindled.

“I don’t know the Alma mater like that, I think I know the first two lines but I do hear it at the sporting games and some important events,” Jacolby Norris, a senior electrical engineering student said. “Graduating college now makes me think I’ve missed out on that part but I do think it’s important to learn it someday though.”

Some students think A&T should include the importance of the song in the freshman success curriculum, a required class for freshman students.

“I think if we were forced to learn the songs, we would know it once we graduated. It’s not like the chants where you can pick up the words easily,” Myles Clark, a junior business management student explained. “So, I think teaching us what it means

would be beneficial and help us understand A&T culture as a whole.”

Other students like Amari Jones, a senior marketing student, think students are missing out on traditions and that they should care more about learning the words than they do.

“You see other schools like Howard and Hampton and even Spelman have these traditions they uphold and A&T doesn’t really have any, so learning the song could help us uphold that and be connected more to the older alumni,” Jones said.

Whether you are graduating senior, junior, sophomore, or freshman, learning the Alma mater is an important piece of your time at A&T Take the time to learn the words and

meaning behind this beautiful centuries-old song.

Dear A&T

Dear A&T, Dear A&T, a monument indeed

Around thy base with grateful hearts behold thy students kneel

We bless the power that gave thee birth to help us in our need

We’ll ever strive while here on earth

All loyalty to yield

Refrain:

With joy, with joy, dear A&T, thy students turn from thee

To spread thy trophies year by year

From Dare to Cherokee.

Dear A&T, Dear A&T, the signet thou shalt be

Set by our great old commonwealth, proud boaster of the free

She’d have the record of her worth on granite not inscribed Nay, let the children of her birth proclaim it by their lives

Refrain:

Dear A&T, Dear A&T, henceforth our aim shall be

By precepts wise and deeds more sure to bless the State through thee

The arts of industry to wield against an idle foe

A harvest rich from ripened fields or what thy students sow.

Photo courtesy of Chris English (Chris English Photography) The Blue and Gold marching machine, A&T’s beloved band, marches through Greensboro during the Homecoming parade.

The silent yet rich history behind the strolling at HBCU graduation

By Gabriel Woodard Digital Media Producer

Amidst the jubilant atmosphere of graduation ceremonies, a tradition unique to many historically Black college campuses often takes center stage: Greek organizations strolling.

These vibrant displays of unity and pride have become an integral part of the graduation experience for many students across the nation. But behind the rhythmic steps and coordinated movements lies a rich history deeply intertwined with the roots of Greek life on college campuses.

“As long as I have been Greek I know it’s been done. Even before I became a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. in 2006, I noticed Greeks strolling across the stage at graduations for many years prior,” said Deregaryl Covington, Spring 2006 initiate of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. “It’s just a way to not only celebrate a major accomplishment but shout out your Greek organization as well.”

The history of strolling traces back to the early 20th century, when African American Greek letter organizations began to emerge in response to the racial segregation prevalent in higher education. These organizations provided spaces for Black students to foster brotherhood and sisterhood, uplift their communities, and navigate the challenges of systemic discrimination.

As graduates prepare to embark on the next chapter of their lives, these performances serve as a touching reminder of the bonds forged during their college years.

HBCUs have long been at the forefront of providing access to higher education for African American students, serving as bastions of learning, empowerment and social change.

Strolling, with its roots in African cultural traditions and African American history, reaffirms the cultural identity and heritage of HBCU graduates, celebrating their journey of academic excellence amidst the challenges of systemic inequality.

“It adds entertainment to a typically dull processional. Most people love it and some do not,” Covington said. “I’ve been there when they said we couldn’t stroll across the stage but we never listened to it because at that point we were done, what else could they do.”

Most people look forward to the strolls after the graduation processional. The graduates aren’t the only ones who get a kick out of the organization displays.

These moments bring a lot of exposure to Greek letter organizations. People begin to gain interest and ask questions. This contributes to how organizations continue to grow.

“It also gives people with the aspirations of going to college that college is not only about studies but it can be fun too,” Covington shared. “It shows off a tiny sliver of Greek life. A ‘Hey daddy/mommy what’s that,’ could open up a whole other world for someone.”

While many enjoy the rhythmic stomps, claps, and strolling, many do not find it amusing. They’d rather see the processional and leave it to that.

“The tradition remains the same even if some administrators try to stop it. The strolls themselves have

evolved over time,” Covington said.

While the performances from Greek organizations may not be the highlight for some, it’s significant in the culture.

Many organizations rely on this specific event to grab the attention of those who may be interested.

“Every year you have graduates carrying the torch,” explained Covington. “It’s a tradition that as long as Greeks remain on campus and continue strolling, it will not die.”

It’s hard to break such a rich tradition when it comes to Greek organizations strolling at graduation. These traditions are connected to the history wrapped around the initial years of Greek organizations.

Photo courtesy of N.C. A&T University Archives and Special Collections 1932 commencement with FD Bluford on the right and Dr. Woodson on the left.

A post-graduate survival guide

By KaJuan Durer theWORD Editor

The anticipation is building for seniors with graduation day less than a few weeks away. Where did the years go? From freshman year and getting acclimated to a new environment, to now having to prepare for the postgrad opportunities to come.

From the looks of it, post-grad life doesn’t seem too scary, if anything I feel we’re prepared for it the most. The internships, co-ops, and positions in leadership on campus have prepared us all for this moment and there’s no point in letting up now.

“I am most excited about the opportunity to work in the sports industry and turn my passion for sports into a career,” shared Wesley Worrell, a senior journalism and mass communications student. “I’ve been preparing for this moment since my freshman year,”

Sometimes even in preparation, many of us may not be as ready for or sure of the post-grad life. As someone getting ready to graduate and enter post-grad life, here are some tips for all of us, to keep us on our track.

Recognize that financial success takes time

While some can make good money right out of college, many actually don’t. Prioritize saving money by setting aside a certain amount each month as soon as you get paid.

You are not a failure if your first job out of school isn’t paying you six figures. That’s a common misconception that many recent graduates believe when entering the workforce.

It may not be the most glamorous task, but budgeting remains vital in today’s high inflation environment. Post-college life tends to be pricier than student years, and unexpected expenses can easily sneak up on you if you’re unprepared.

Start by tracking your income and expenses closely, identifying areas where you can trim down spending. By doing so you can allow yourself to enjoy the lifestyle you want without constant financial worries.

Taking charge of your finances not only improves your financial health but also enhances your emotional well-being.

Be intentional about maintaining relationships

Being intentional about maintaining relationships is important due to the significant life changes that you are about to face. After college, many will move to new cities for work or further education, leading to physical distance from friends and the disruption of familiar social circles.

By being intentional about the relationships you have, you can maintain the bonds you’ve formed during your college years and continue to receive support, companionship, and encouragement as you navigate the transition

into adulthood.

Remember your network is your net worth! The people you stay in connection and contact with could help put you on to an opportunity you’ve been waiting for.

Develop your personal brand

Emphasizing your individuality is an excellent strategy to differentiate yourself for prospective employers; as your unique qualities are among your most valuable assets post-graduation.

Dedicate some time to introspection to pinpoint what aspects of your personality set you apart, and consider how you can use these traits to your advantage.

Expand your professional network by actively participating in industry communities and engaging with relevant groups to enhance your understanding and refine your brand.

When interview opportunities arise, a thorough understanding of your strengths, identity, and approach to achieving objectives and overcoming obstacles, can greatly enhance your performance and leave a lasting impression.

While the need to survive post-grad is important, resources that you can use to your advantage are just as important as well. Here are some resources that can help you continue your journey.

Join professional organizations

Join professional organizations that align with your field of study. Opt for involvement in the professional level of an organization relevant to your major rather than sticking solely to student chapters.

For instance, if you’re studying journalism, consider joining your local chapter of the National Association of Black Journalists. This offers valuable exposure to seasoned professionals with genuine expertise and connections that can pave the way for tangible career opportunities

LinkedIn

If you haven’t consistently used LinkedIn throughout your college tenure, now’s the time to do so. LinkedIn serves a distinct purpose from social networking platforms like Facebook. Instead of using it for casual interactions, view it as a powerful tool for showcasing your name and skills to potential employers.

Consider it an accessible digital resume. Build connections with current and former employers, coworkers, and classmates; request recommendations from them to enhance the credibility of your profile.

These contacts might even facilitate introductions to other industry professionals within their network.

Handshake

I feel as though Handshake is not talked about a lot, but it is a great tool to continue to use post-grad. Handshake holds significant importance as a resource for students and recent graduates navigating the transition from college to the professional world.

It serves as a platform where job opportunities are centralized, providing access to internships, part-time roles, full-time positions, and volunteer opportunities tailored to individual career interests and fields of study.

Handshake offers personalized recommendations based on users’ profiles, including education, skills and interests. This feature saves time and effort by delivering job listings and event suggestions that closely align with users’ career goals and aspirations.

Surviving and preparing for life after graduation can be a tough process, but the resources and tips provided, if applied seriously, can help you start to navigate your post-grad life as you begin to transition into the next chapter of your life.

Congratulations Aggies, the class of 2024, we did it!

Photo courtesy of ncatsuaggies (North Carolina A&T State University) Navigate the Next Chapter: A Survival Guide for N.C. A&T’s Post-Graduates.

The most successful teams of NCAT sports this year

By Ashton Griffith theSCORE Co-Reporter

The NCAT sports scene has been buzzing with excitement this year as the university’s most successful teams have showcased their competitiveness and achievements. From track and field to women’s bowling and women’s basketball, NCAT athletes are making waves and leaving a mark in their respective sports arenas.

Track & Field

North Carolina A&T’s track and field team is on track to complete another successful season. Throughout the indoor and outdoor season, the Aggie track team has accomplished a lot in their meets and championships.

At this season’s Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) Indoor Championship, the men’s indoor team finished seven points shy of capturing another conference championship, and its first as a Coastal Athletic Association member. The team claimed four titles throughout this year’s championship.

The Lady Aggies took home two gold medals and had eight all-conference nods. Both A&T teams also had some repeat champions.

On the women’s side, junior hurdler Lucheyona Weaver repeated as the CAA champion in the 60-meter hurdles. After setting the meet record in the preliminaries, Weaver won the title by running an 8.21.

Both A&T 4x400-meter relay teams captured CAA indoor titles as well. The women’s team of Fajr Kelly, Pebbles Scott, Mykala Perry, and Serenity Brazell ran a meet-record of 3:41.58 to win the title.

The Aggies continued their dominance on the men’s side, featuring Shemar Chambers, Xzaviah Taylor, Reid and Isaiah Taylor, finishing in 3:10.07 to win their sixth 4x400 conference title in seven conference indoor championships. Men’s track athlete, Aeneas Reed, Jr., also won the long jump title.

The other repeat champion for A&T was Brayden Hodgest in the men’s shot put. Hodgest won his second straight title by having his best throw land at 55 feet, 6 ½ inches.

After finishing third last season in the 60H, Jason Holmes claimed the 2024 title by running the fifth-fastest time in the nation at 7.65. Holmes put himself in a position to compete for a national championship this season where he finished 12th in the semifinals.

After a successful season where at one point he was the No. 1 hurdler in the NCAA, Holmes earned second-team All-American accolades.

As the outdoor season continues, the Aggies are already making strides and breaking records. Junior standout, Lucheyona Weaver, broke the meet and facility record in the 100-meter hurdles with a time of 13.11 at High Point University earlier this season. This time also served as a personal record for Weaver, as she ranks No. 1 in the conference and 17th nationally.

As the outdoor track and field season goes on, the team looks to build on their current progress as they inch closer to the championship.

Women’s Bowling

The Lady Aggies bowling team had another successful season as they made it to the 2024 NCAA Bowling Tournament.

The Aggies had an outstanding

season, going 89-30 during the regular season, and received one of the tournament’s eight at-large bids being placed as the fourth overall seed in the tournament and the top seed in the Arlington Region.

This marks the fourth straight NCAA appearance and its sixth overall. All of those appearances have come in the last eight years.

This season marked the end of the two legendary careers of N.C. A&T’s own Melanie Katen and Lauren Tomaszewski. Katen finished with two Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) bowler of the year awards and three first-team All-MEAC accolades. She also has three National Tenpin Coaches Association (NTCA) All-American mentions.

Tomaszewski won this season’s MEAC Bowler of the Year award. She also won back-to-back Most Outstanding Bowler awards at the 2022 and 2023 MEAC bowling tournaments. Tomaszewski is the program’s, first-team NTCA All-American as well as an honorable mention All-American accolade and two-time All-Northeast Region NTCA bowler.

Both ladies played a major role in helping the Aggies win three MEAC tournament titles, reach four NCAA tournaments, and qualify for three International Team Championship (ITC) nationals sponsored by the United States Bowling Congress (USBC).

In the past four years, the A&T bowling team has won three straight MEAC tournament championships, with their streak being snapped this year. Women’s bowling at A&T has continued to prove why they are one of the university’s most successful athletic programs.

Women’s Basketball

This marked a historic season as the women’s basketball team drew some of the largest crowds and exposure the program has ever seen.

For the first time in program history, the team hosted NCAA-sanctioned

postseason tournament games. N.C. A&T has not hosted an NCAA-sanctioned postseason event since hosting the 2020 NCAA Division III Track & Field Championships at Marcus T. Johnson Track.

The Aggies finished the season with a total record of 22-12. The team went 13-5 in conference play, finishing in a tie for third place with another 2024 Women’s National Invitational Tournament (WNIT) participant, the College of Charleston.

The Aggies also entered the CAA tournament in Washington, D.C., as the No. 4 seed, earning a coveted double-bye. They defeated 13th-seeded Hofstra in the quarterfinals for their first postseason win since leaving the MEAC in 2021.

For a week in late March, A&T women’s basketball contributed to the national excitement surrounding the women’s game. The Aggies drew crowds of more than 3,000 for the three consecutive games it hosted at the 5,000-seat Corbett Sports Center. This season, the Aggies were home to first-team All-CAA junior guard, Jordyn Dorsey. Dorsey was the first player in program history to earn first-team honors from the conference. She averaged 12.9 points with 3.4 assists and 5.3 rebounds this season.

Senior guard Maleia Bracone earned all-defensive team honors from the league for the second straight season along with Paris Locke earning all-rookie honors.

The highlight of the season for the Aggies was Bracone’s 3-pointer in front of the A&T bench with 0.9 seconds remaining in the game to advance the Aggies to the third round of the WNIT with a 48-45 win over Old Dominion University (ODU) at Corbett Sports Center.

Although the team’s season ended before the WNIT Elite 8, the players on this team made way for a historic season for the program and the university.

Photo courtesy of Kevin L. Dorsey Lucheyona Weaver Breaks High Point University meet and facility record in 100H with a time of 13.11.

N.C. A&T graduate student makes strides in her first year

By Aniya Misher theCULTURE Reporter

As graduation season approaches, many students are indecisive about their next steps after crossing the stage. While some students are searching for a summer internship or starting their full-time careers, others are deciding if they want to further their academic career through graduate school.

Graduate school allows students to expand their knowledge and enhance their skills in their field of study. However, finding the perfect graduate school program can be overwhelming.

Graduate student Essence Con-

“To be quite honest, I went to grad school as a cop-out, because I did not know what I wanted to do,” shared Connor-Barringer.

She graduated with her bachelor’s degree in English from A&T in May 2023.

“But now that I am here, I am glad that I did it because the opportunities are better, and I am learning more about the career field I want to go into,” she explained.

During her first semester as a graduate student, Connor-Barringer was selected as the 2023-24 Aggie Poet Laureate.

Hosted by the A&T Creative Writing Program and Bluford Library, the Aggie Poet Laureate is a competitive ambassador program that selects one ambassador each academic year.

“Being the laureate promotes the idea of artistic expression and I go to events where I can share my writing with people,” Connor-Barringer said. “I encourage other students and people to write and cultivate a community within literature and artistic expression.”

Connor-Barringer has always had a passion for literature. She explains how her brother helped ignite that passion into a career.

“One day, I was talking to my brother while playing basketball, and I told him I wanted to be a writer, and he said you’re already a writer so just do something about it,” she shared.

“Maple Sunrise,” a poetry book depicting the feelings of heartbreak.

“I’ve never shared poems with people growing up,” she said. “It’s an exciting thing to see my name in a book.”

During her senior year of undergrad, she published “An Ochre Road,” the sequel to her first book.

When not writing for class or personal projects, Connor-Barringer also serves as a writing consultant in the University Writing Center.

the graduate program, Connor-Barringer reflects on what sets A&T’s program apart.

“I like that A&T is very Black and very inclusive. I feel widely accepted in the program and that they actually care about our curriculum,” Connor-Barringer said. “There’s a certain connection at A&T, and in the English graduate department that I just wouldn’t get somewhere else.”

After graduating with her master’s degree, she plans to pursue her dream of being a full-time author of poetry and short stories.

nor-Barringer is enrolled in the North Carolina A&T English and African American literature program.

She took her brother’s advice, and in May of 2021, as an undergraduate student, she published

“Helping other people, and having them share their work with me is very rewarding,” she said. “It has even helped me in my personal writing.”

As she finishes her first year in

You can follow her journey on Instagram @ManicAtTheDiscourse.

Photo courtesy of Essence Connor-Barringer Connor-Barringer at her undergraduate graduation ceremony in May 2023.

Photo courtesy of Essence Connor-Barringer Copies of Connor-Barringer’s self-published poetry books, “Maple Sunrise,” and “An Ochre Road.”

Busting myths of the first year in the “Real World”

By Mattie Moore theCULTURE Editor

According to a study by the Pew Research Center, roughly two million students graduate with a bachelor’s degree each year. The shift from attending school fulltime to joining the workforce can promote feelings of uncertainty and anxiety for people who are unsure about how to navigate such a big step.

One of the biggest challenges for individuals new to the workforce is finding their first full-time job. As peers begin posting life updates and new job opportunities on social platforms such as Instagram or LinkedIn, feelings of unworthiness can easily sink in.

According to a study at the University of Washington, it takes an average of three to six months for a graduate to land their first job.

Many believe a person’s major in college limits their choices in applying for positions. Oftentimes this is not the case.

Victoria Griffin, a 2023 graduate of North Carolina A&T is the perfect example. She studied political science but now works in corporate communications. She found that many skills are transferable across fields.

“A lot of the skills needed for the position, although not inherently political science related, overlapped,” Griffin said. “The topics I cover in corporate communications were things that we studied in the political science program, like the impact of race in different environments or the impact of climate change on the way businesses and organizations operate.”

Faith Fleming, an Appalachian State graduate and current grad-

uate student at N.C. A&T found that most jobs simply want you to have a degree in something and that the course of study isn’t the most important factor in finding a job.

She studied psychology but was able to find a career in healthcare.

“I would say getting a job outside your major is easy, I was able to work in a pharmacy and I learned a lot. I was also able to make a good amount of money,” Fleming said.

While experience in a field is often necessary, some graduates found they received training on the job to prepare them for a formerly unfamiliar role.

Charlee Major, a 2023 journal-

ism student graduate of A&T was worried if her skills would suffice in her post-grad job as a video editor. However, she quickly picked up on the new skills.

“It’s not something I had a lot of experience doing prior to working at MLB, especially at such a high level,” Major shared. “I thought that would hinder me and put me behind all my coworkers. I quickly learned the editing style, and even learned how to make creative pieces that have been posted to MLB social media.”

As the former students settle into their new cities and begin adulting, it is a common thought that friends are hard to come by outside of an academic setting. While this may be true for some, many graduates find a community

alongside fellow young professionals.

Lawrence Bullock graduated from A&T in May of 2022 and then returned the following year for a master’s program. After leaving Greensboro, he found a new home in the DMV area.

“Meeting new friends is not that bad, you just have to be willing to explore the city that you moved to,” Bullock said.

While the shift to a new phase in life can bring challenges, the newest set of college graduates preparing to enter the workforce can be reminded by others of the various ways one can steer through these new waters, and be wary of the common misconceptions that follow.

Photo courtesy of ncat.edu

North Carolina A&T graduates at the Spring 2023 Commencement Ceremony.

N.C. A&T’s class of 2024 prepares to take flight

By Dasia Williams theCULTURE Co-lead Reporter

As the spring semester draws to a close at North Carolina A&T, three graduating seniors stand at the cusp of their academic journey, brimming with excitement and bittersweet nostalgia.

Meet Alexa Smith, Dominque Johnson and Marcus Harris, three remarkable individuals whose paths intersected at N.C. A&T, forging a bond that transcends the confines of campus life.

my heart is torn between the thrill of stepping into the professional world and the nostalgia for the bustling campus life I’ll soon bid farewell to,” Smith reflects.

On the other hand, Marcus, a steadfast finance major, has spent his years at A&T immersed in equations and experiments, driven by a relentless pursuit of financial understanding and innovation.

His eyes gleam with anticipation as he envisions the endless possibilities awaiting him in the realm of business and economics. Yet, amidst the excitement, Marcus can’t help but feel a pang of sadness, knowing that the halls where he honed his skills will soon become a distant memory.

Smith, a senior studying computer graphics, has always harbored a passion for UI elements and design processes. Her journey at A&T has been marked by countless hours in the digital arts studio, meticulously crafting visuals that merge creativity with technology.

“With graduation looming,

“I am very excited to pursue my master’s degree, but I can’t

help but think that even though I am elevating to a new season of life, I feel like I left something behind,” Harris said. “I will miss the culture at A&T and the idea of being at an HBCU and being a college student.”

Dominque Johnson, a senior marketing student from California will miss the camaraderie the most.

“I am very excited to be graduating, but I definitely will miss the community I formed here, and I will always cherish the friendships and bonds I made between the advisors and faculty too,” Johnson said.

Despite the bittersweet nature of their impending departure, the graduates are determined to make the most of their final days as Aggies.

As they stand on the threshold of a new chapter, each of them finds solace in the knowledge that their time at A&T has prepared them for the adventures that lie ahead.

Though they may part ways, their bond as Aggies will forever unite them, a testament to the transformative power of education and friendship.

Photo courtesy of Dominique Johnson Dominque Johnson, posing for her pre-graduation dinner.

Photo courtesy of N.C. A&T Bookstore Marcus Harris, posing for a pre-grad photoshoot.

Photo courtesy of N.C. A&T Bookstore Alexa Smith prepping for graduation day.

Many lives of Aggies

Photo courtesy of Jaia Black Lewis Gives hangout.

Photo courtesy of photosbyjada_ Paris Locke goes to block opponent’s shot during the WINT tournament.

Photo courtesy of J5 archives Women’s history month photo shoot.

Photo courtesy of @photosbyjada_ Contestant Tyrell Scott Jr. from Mr. Zeta Phi Beta pageant shaking a judge’s hand.

Photo courtesy of Jaia Black Aggies at a powderpuff game.

Arial Robinson is typing her own creative story

By Gabrielle Howard theSCENE Reporter

Arial Robinson, a proud alumna from North Carolina A&T, continues pushing boundaries with her creativity and various projects.

Sunglasses, lectures, postcards, and more are just some of the things Robinson has created and used to express herself through and share her vision.

From Charlotte, North Carolina, Robinson is the creator of the infamous A&T Dunks from the Nike Yardrunners 2022 campaign.

vision and helped execute it.

“They instilled a lot of confidence in me even though I was the youngest on set by far, but they were just like ‘You’re here for a reason,’” explained Robinson. “A lot of the times young Black creators will get in these spaces and they just want us to be grateful to be there…but they made sure my travel was covered, they made sure my voice was heard, and I really appreciated that.”

After graduation, Robinson has gone on to accomplish many successful projects and continues to make strides in her journey.

The Charlotte native has always valued expressing herself from a young age. Born in an environment that helped her foster her creativity, Robinson’s self-expression has always felt connected to her art.

“I’ve always been creative. I don’t remember discovering my creativity or discovering my artistic abilities because that’s just something that I’ve always been interested in,” Robinson shared.

“Being a young child watching Disney Channel wanting to be on TV [and] wanting to act, I would ask my parents to buy me the drawing marker and crayon kit. I’ve always been into creativity and writing.”

thanks to one of her friends.

Robinson was very grateful for the chance to model for Marc Jacobs.

“It was very positive, everyone on set was great. It was extremely professional,[and] it was a great experience,” Robinson said.

Her journey with her art and her projects, like her work on SoularLab, a “new world laboratory,” created by Robinson as a creative platform to allow her creativity and vision to produce authentic stories through various on and offline projects.

Through these various endeavors, Robinson has also found the space

to help others who want to pursue the creative field.

The A&T alumna held her first lecture on March 28 at North Carolina State University titled “Explore, Document, Reflect: Leveraging Experiences For The Creative Process,” as a part of the Making Space Series hosted by the institution.

In this talk, she discussed her experience as a recent HBCU graduate and artist, as well as the design approach that she uses in her projects.

To continue to follow Robinson and her career and artistic journey follow her Instagram @im.arial.

Robinson enjoyed her time and the opportunity to be heard when working with Nike on the shoe. She described how amazing it was to be around others who saw her

Opportunity, just like inspiration strikes at any moment, and for Robinson that appeared as the chance to model with Marc Jacobs

Photo courtesy of @im.arial A&T alumna, Arial Robinson poses for a picture.

Photo courtesy of @im.arial

A&T alumna, Arial Robinson takes a picture in her room.

Hometown friends reflect on the last four years of college

By Haley Pender theSCENE Lead Reporter

As the collegiate school year comes to a close, many seniors find themselves racing to decide what the next chapter of their young adult life holds. Some contemplate graduate school options while others look at promising entry-level positions in their respective fields.

But for Raleigh, North Carolina natives, Zavier Avery, Taylor and Tyler Peele, this time of year means officially saying goodbye to the last eight years of going to school together.

The three students who are also friends, all graduated from Rolesville High School in 2020 during the prime of COVID-19. Though they all chose North Carolina A&T for college, they all took different paths toward success.

Tyler and Taylor, who are fraternal twins, with Tyler majoring in bioengineering and Taylor majoring in food science, immersed themselves in campus culture through organizations such as the Residence Hall Association (RHA) and Student Government Association (SGA).

Taylor ran for SGA treasurer during the 2022-2023 academic school year and Tyler has been an active member in the Residence Hall Association as a residential assistant and candidate for Mr. North Campus.

Avery stayed proactive in his department and received several internships over the years including one in New Mexico. After graduation, he will be interning with North Carolina State University along with exploring other oppor-

tunities with different companies.

Avery also credits A&T for allowing him to explore all sides of himself, he told the Register.

“N.C. A&T has prepared me for what’s next by helping me unlock a side of creativity I have never seen in myself before,” he shared.

“I was inspired to create my own photography page where I take pictures of people and nature... It’s a very fulfilling outlet as a STEM student.”

The page, @zaviersgallery, gives viewers a glimpse into his interests as a STEM student in addition to his creative side. He looks forward to capturing more memories this coming May.

“It’s a great feeling knowing that the people that could not make it to my high school graduation because of COVID-19 restrictions can now come to see me walk across the stage and get my diploma in person,” Avery said.

Tyler is looking to attend graduate school as well and expressed his gratitude for A&T helping him get to this moment.

“A&T has been a place for me to grow and learn about myself throughout the years...but also one where you can learn about how to handle life situations,” he shared.

Taylor, who’s attending Virginia Tech for graduate school in the fall, did feel a sense of loss during her collegiate experience in the beginning. She explained her thoughts in regards to her freshman year.

“I feel like I was able to gain a lot more academically because all I was able to do was focus on classwork but socially, I do wish that I had an orientation because seeing the future classes have those experiences made me feel like... ‘Man I missed something,’” Taylor Peele said.

The three friends stayed close beyond going to each other’s sweet sixteens’ and graduation drive-thru parties, by hanging out with each other whenever they could on campus.

But as time continues to tick, the campus meet-ups will soon come to a bittersweet close in less than a few weeks when the three walk the stage and turn their tassels at the Greensboro Coliseum.

Two renowned women, talk show host Tamron Hall and Dr. Stephanie G. Adams will be the N.C. A&T commencement spring 2024 keynote speakers on Saturday, May 11.

Photos courtesy of Sara Avery

From right to left, Zaviery Avery, Taylor, and Tyler Peele at their 2020 Rolesville High School graduation.

Photos courtesy of Sara Avery Zavier Avery in his high school cap and gown in 2020.

Meet The A&T Register Staff

Rosegalie Cineus Editor-in-Chief

Kamryn Jackson Managing Editor

Kaila Collier Senior Editor

Gabriel Woodard Digital Media Producer

Teren McNeil Social Media Director

Gabrielle Heyward theYard Editor

Michael Cartwright theYard co-lead reporter

Kajuan Durer theWord Editor

Shemaiah Thomas theWord co-lead reporter

Mattie Moore theCulture Editor

Dasia Williams theCulture co-lead reporter

Aniya Misher theCulture co-lead reporter

Caulin Avery theScore Editor

Aniyah Beck theScore co-lead reporter

Ashton Griffith theScore co-lead reporter

Nicole Neal theScene Editor

Haley Pender theScene lead reporter

Jasmine Moore General Assignment Reporter Gabrielle Howard General Assignment Reporter

Maya Barber General Assignment Reporter

Armani Ross Photographer

Kaiya Douglas Photographer

Jmya Frazier Photographer

Khari Obichere Art Design Director