Love Print Editon Spring 2024

4-5 theYARD

7-10 theWORD

11-12 the CULTURE

13-15 theSCENE

17-18 theSCORE

19 Meet the staff

About the LOVE edition

Production of this semester’s first 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

Senior Editor: Kaila Collier

Art Design Director: Khari Obichere

Editors/Reporters: Mattie Moore, Aniya Misher, Dasia Williams, KaJuan Durer, Steven Matthews, Gabby Heyward, Michael Cartwright, Caulin Avery, Aniyah Beck, Ashton Griffith, Nicole Neal, Haley Pender, Jasmine Moore, Gabby Howard, Maya Barber

Photographers: Armani Ross and Jmya Frazier

Social Media: Teren McNeill

Digital Media Producer: Gabriel Woodard

Interim Adviser: Jennifer Fernandez

Community Love

Get hype!

Good days in the stu.

Flashin them pearly whites.

Back in my day!

Verge in the house!

A good day for Chic-Fil-A.

Photos by Jmya Frazier

The A&T Four: The movement heard around America

By Michael Cartwright, theYARD Reporter

On February 1, 1960, history was made right in our backyard by Jibreel Khazan (Ezell Blair Jr.), Franklin McCain, Joseph McNeil and David Richmond. As college students at N.C. A&T, the group made their mark sitting at a whites-only Woolworth’s lunch counter, fighting for segregation.

This movement inspired the students of A&T and pushed the entire nation to change public accommodations laws with sit-ins around the country.

On February 1, A&T had its 64th celebration of the A&T Four, commemorating the four men and the legacy they left on campus and beyond.

The celebration began with the 64th Sit-In Anniversary Breakfast at the Alumni-Foundation Event Center.

This year’s celebration was themed “The Gathering: Strength in Our City.”

The breakfast began at 7 a.m., with the N.C. A&T Fellowship Gospel Choir, video presentations

such as “In Their Own Words” and “The Legacy of the Greensboro Four,” and speakers such as the Student Government Association (SGA) President Jasmine Amanianpong, Bennett College SGA President Zakhya Jones Walker and Chancellor Harold L. Martin.

“We have three cohorts of February One scholars, and they’re really excited to have this scholarship named after the A&T Four,” says Mr. Darrell Hairston, the interim coordinator for the February One scholars’ program.

According to A&T’s website, the February One scholar program is a scholarship named in honor of the A&T Four, which selects promising students for the program.

“They’re highly motivated students making a change in our communities,” Hairston said.

The Sit-In Anniversary featured an intimate round-table discussion called, “The Gathering Conversation,” where supporters of A&T discussed how the A&T Four advocated for our rights and asked what sacrifice it would take for us to be strong within advocacy today.

“When advocating and gathering, it’s important to have a plan of action,” said Kennedy Lighty, a sophomore political science student speaking on the panel.

Other speakers of “The Gathering Conversation” included Jelani Favors, Ph.D., a Henry Frye Distinguished Professor of History and director of the Center of Excellence in Social Justice, Tiffany Seawright, the Director of Leadership and Engagement and Oliver

M. Thomas, the Director of External Affairs.

The celebration breakfast would not be complete without Chancellor Martin presenting well-deserved awards to the special guests.

One of the awards went to James Barnhill, the creator of the February One Monument sculpture.

Barnhill completed the sculpture in 2002, with the piece standing 15 feet tall in front of the Dudley Memorial Building today.

“The monument means everything to me and to the history behind what happened 64 years ago,” Barnhill explained.

The breakfast concluded with the presentation of the Human Rights medal, given to recipient Naeema Muhummad, the senior advisor of the North Carolina Environmental Justice Network.

Following this event, the Memorial Wreath was laid in front of the February One monument. The ceremony featured the A&T Fel-

lowship Gospel Choir, the creator of the February One monument, James Barnhill, students, alumni, and those in the community who desired to witness the special occasion.

A&T’s Attorney General, a junior political science student, Kylie Rice, played a part in the ceremony.

“It was an honor to facilitate this event and return to where the history happened,” Rice shared.

With Rice being active in civic engagement and education herself, being a part of the February One celebration and commemorating them was near and dear to her.

“The A&T Four planted the foot of activism at A&T. Without them, we wouldn’t be as motivated to have as much political participation and civic engagement as we do,” Rice said.

The morning concluded with a discussion featuring students speaking about activism and social justice from an HBCU perspective and a young adult taking their rightful place in society.

February One is not only a day but a movement that is forever embedded in the hearts of Aggies as the future global change-makers in this society.

The brave actions of Blair Jr., McCain, McNeil and Richmond made an impact on civil rights history. It is inspiring to know the prominent figures came from the stomping grounds of A&T.

For the love of the Stu: Places people love around campus

By Gabrielle Heyward, theYARD Editor

N.C. A&T is known for its diverse collection of majors, the Greatest Homecoming on Earth (GHOE) and opportunities. As students matriculate through school, they find themselves falling in love with places here at A&T. Here are a few of those places that students love to use and visit around campus.

ent events going on.”

Students can indulge in all of the amenities of the Student Center, including the lounge chairs and game room, relax on any of the three different floors available, or visit the different offices located in the building.

The Student Center

The Student Center, or as students call it, “the Stu,” is considered the “the heartbeat of campus.” As one of the newer buildings, only opening in 2018, the Student Center has become the Mecca for gatherings around campus.

“It’s a good area for students to relax and also to meet up with everybody too,” said Aaron James, a senior electrical engineering student. “My favorite part of the Stu is the lounge chairs because we like to observe other students walking around, and sometimes there will be pop-ups and differ-

“It can be very hectic during campaign season, but that’s what makes the Student Center so fun and competitive,” James said. “But it’s for students of all kinds. Every type of person has a spot in the Student Center.”

Dining Halls

On both sides of campus are Williams Dining Hall and Marketplace, where food and entertainment commence. A&T Dining hosts different events for students to participate in.

“I love the different themes of A&T Dining. I prefer Williams because of portions, but Marketplace has better food qualities,”

said Jasmine Rhodes, a junior nursing student.

Some of the events and theme takeovers in the dining halls include Winter Carnival, Hot and Spicy Food Day, Goosebumps, Wingeria and Aggie Bakery. One of their signature events is the late-night breakfast, which takes place before each winter and spring break.

“My favorite event that Williams has is the late-night breakfast,” Rhodes said. “They have a DJ, and student volunteers serve us breakfast, and it’s just so much fun with a hint of nostalgia.

F.D Bluford Library

Bluford Library is a quieter place on campus that students enjoy using. Sometimes called “Club Bluford,” students study and use this place as a center to hang with friends and get schoolwork done together.

”The library is so peaceful when students aren’t stressed out for midterms, but it’s another area to decompress,” Alyssa Singletary, a junior biology student, said. “They just added the MakerSpace, where you can create things.”

Club Corbett

Club Corbett is known for its basketball game camaraderie, but it also hosts a plethora of other events. Annually, the career fair is located here, where thousands of employers show up to recruit students.

“It’s very versatile, you can go in there and see fashion shows,

speeches, or basketball games, and there are all different vibes, but it’s always fun,” Kai Johnson, a sophomore psychology student, shared.

Additionally, student organizations such as the Student University Activities Board (SUAB) and Student Government Association (SGA) host Aggie Fest and Homecoming events in Corbett.

“It’s a great representation of student life, and it’s never a dull moment in Corbett,” Johnson added.

Holland Bowl

When the weather is right, Holland Bowl is an exciting time. Students will use Holland Bowl for make-shift parties, 7-on-7 football games and other outdoor activities.

“Holland Bowl is like a chameleon of its own kind,” Noah Gabriel, a civil engineering student, shared. You might find the boys playing football games or other folks just people-watching, but it’s a vibe when it’s warm outside.”

Pet Love

Pose for the camera!

Bundled up.

I like turtles.

Photos by Armani Ross

Do you believe in Aggie love stories?

By Maya Barber-Haggins, General Assignment Reporter

Since 1891, Aggie love stories have presented themselves on campus. It’s something everyone may want but can’t seem to have. For many generations, Aggie love has wisped around the school, in and out of classrooms, and has impacted many people’s lives dramatically.

When coming to A&T all you hear about is Aggie love stories and the buzz around it. It may have you think about the potential problems: Can you trust them? Will they be loyal? Are they playing you? There are so many risks to being in an Aggie love story, but sometimes, you just have to be willing to take the chance.

And there have been many situations where the ones who took that chance have seen a happy ending and marriages in their future.

“At first I didn’t believe in the Aggie love story, I didn’t come to college for anything because “college is college,” but now I believe in it because I’m in mine,” said Jaimee Standfield, a junior kinesiology student.

Standfield’s Aggie love story began in her first semester of sophomore year when love and relationships were not the biggest things on her mind.

“I was minding my business, and my now boyfriend would see me around campus sometimes and on Instagram,” Standfield shared. “He tried to pursue me, and we started talking. Then one day he surprised me with flowers and then the rest is history.”

Aggie love stories can be hard to come by but they can also be a beautiful thing if it works out. Being in college full of all different kinds of people can be one of the best times to explore and find your love story.

It can be very challenging, with the simple fact that the ratio between men and women on campus is terrible. Nevertheless, there’s always hope and a bit of necessary delusion to continue the buzz of Aggie’s love.

According to business management student Aiden Peterson, Aggie love is possible because there are “too many fine women” on campus for there not to be.

“I do believe in Aggie love stories. I know two people who are currently in their Aggie love story,” said Solomon Aladekoba, a junior finance student. “Both of them did have to go through the trenches a little bit, but now they are almost a year strong, so I think there’s something there.”

Being on campus, it is hard to believe in the Aggie love story and the number one reason is because the “typical Aggie” is known for being outside.

“I used to have one, but it end-

ed; I still believe in them because when you know what you want the right person will come to you naturally,” said Trinity Rogers, a junior journalism student. “My Aggie love story was great, I just started putting God first and it kind of ended. It wasn’t a bad breakup; it was great.

The special part about Aggie love stories is they all develop in different ways and can shape your college experience.

Christopher Harris, a sophomore journalism student, met his girlfriend over Instagram and since then they have begun to think about their future, trusting each other fully in their relationship, and have even had thoughts of marriage in four or five years.

“We met in November in 2022 over an Instagram post that I posted saying “Nothing is funny in November because of exams and stuff coming up,” he explained. “She slid up on my story and we started bonding off of that. We met in person on Nov. 8 for the first time and the rest is history; I’m in love.”

Harris explained that people need to treat people right and it’s not that hard. But, with the influx of activities on and off campus, many lack trust and communication which are two main causes of why relationships go south; however, with trust and support, relationships can only get stronger.

“My Aggie love story is going well, my girlfriend and I have been dating for a little bit over a year and it was crazy how we met,” shared Nick Brown, a senior information technology student. “It’s progressing even with the ups and downs but I feel con-

fident and I’m in support of the Aggie love story.”

As a couple, they expressed that they want kids one day and hope they become future aggies, of course after they graduate and are settled in their careers. Most importantly they hope to keep growing more and more in love as years progress.

Aggie love stories add a lot of value and create a college memory that many will never forget. They create generations of new Aggie babies and can provide some of the love and support that many may need during college.

The dating lifestyle in Aggieland

By Jasmine Moore, General Assignment Reporter

It’s not you, it’s me; this is the common understanding in the dating scene at N.C. A&T, with students having a neutral balance between how the relationship goes and what they expect from people they are in a relationship with.

The problem is on this campus, most of the time, students can be afraid of commitment and prefer to have a good time but only briefly. Yet the common difference for those in a relationship may be the maturity level, considering that they are more willing to work for commitment.

But how much is too much when dating on a college campus, especially with the possibility of dating someone you know or a friend from previous relationships?

Some A&T students prefer to let relationships come and go compared to other students, who may create a roster for entertainment.

“Aggie Love” is defined by the A&T community as a beautiful experience where they meet their partners on campus, in places like Williams, Brown Hall, Student

Center and F.D. Bluford Library. A simple moment of love at first sight.

In this generation, we lack those experiences of talking to people we don’t know because we tend to make quick conversations only to refer back to social media to stay connected, especially for those who appeal to our specific types.

Treyvone Scruggs, a freshman electronic technology student, believes in the “Aggie love story” but sees the opportunity as a in real-life experience rather than a cyber experience.

“It’s one thing to meet someone on Instagram and get to know them over the phone, but when you meet them in person, you get a real feel for who they are,” Scruggs said. “You can’t really know somebody over the phone because you don’t know them or how they act in real life.”

From my perspective of observing the dating scene, everyone practically meets the same type of people, only getting a few chances to meet someone different.

The scene for the LGBTQ+ community can be just as tricky. Being a part of it myself, I’ve realized that everyone knows everyone, and that means you can end up dating a friend’s old fling, or it could be that your old fling may have also had a relationship with them.

If you struggle like me to like someone, it can also be hard to get over the one person who was your type.

Arykah Tyler, a sophomore visual art student, believes our dating scene is a reflection of ourselves. To have the dating scene we desire, we must love ourselves first.

“I was wondering why I couldn’t find the right one for me,” Tyler shared. “And the answer is always yourself because your life is a reflection of you. Before I didn’t want a relationship, and it showed in the people I met.”

To Tyler, the A&T dating scene is very toxic, with people dating to fill voids or avoid the opportunity to learn about the actual meaning of love.

Freshman business information technology student Selah Longchamp can agree the Aggie love scene is not the best because everyone wants to have fun and be young, but she also knows you can’t look for love in every place.

“There are some men, as freshmen, that want to treat a woman right,” Longchamp said. “The stereotype that everybody is a bop, that’s not true. You just have to find the right person. If you keep getting upset that you’re not finding the right person, then you’re looking in the wrong places.”

The dating scene can be challenging for those who want to settle down, but it’s expected that you will meet a thousand people before you meet the one. Everything will come in due time because patience will be rewarded. In those times you are waiting, continue to build yourself so you can be ready to love to the fullest extent.

How Do I Practice Self-Love?

By Steven Matthews Jr., theWORD Co-Lead Reporter

Valentine’s Day is approaching sooner than people think or it may already be here by the time you read this, and whether or not you’re someone’s Valentine, you should still take this time to take care of one of the most important people in your life, you.

Taking care of yourself is very important because it can help reduce anxiety and depression.

According to a recent survey for Instagram’s 2024 Trend Talk, prioritizing health and wellness is at the forefront of Gen Z’s interests

“Next year is going to be defined as Gen Z’s growth era, with many honing in on self-improvement and development for the year ahead,” the survey’s website stated.

There are plenty of ways to participate in self-improvement and take care of yourself. Here are a couple of my favorite things to do to take care of me.

Whenever I feel down about school, the first thing I do is put on my headphones and listen to music. Listening to music makes me feel disconnected from the

world around me.

I close my eyes and imagine myself in a music video. My favorite genre of music is R&B, so my go-to artists are Jazmine Sullivan, J. Cole and Victoria Monet. Listening to music is a quick and easy self-care practice that you can do almost anywhere.

Whether I am sad or happy, I love to feel reminded of my childhood. When I was a kid, life was easy and all I had to worry about was not sitting at the “No Peanut Butter” table with my peanut butter crackers.

To take me back to those easier times I do things I did as a kid, like coloring books. Even when I was stressed about staying in the lines, it was peaceful. When I turn on my favorite childhood shows and pull out a coloring book, the only thing I worry about is staying in the lines.

One self-care practice that I think is the most important is taking yourself out on dates. I take myself out on dates and I don’t think that you always have to go on a date with another person.

I love going out but I love laying in bed more so I combine the two. I will go to Chipotle and get my signature bowl and then go see a movie. After the movie is done, I stop by Insomnia Cookies to get a chocolate chip cookie or a scoop of Caramellionaire ice cream. Now and then, I invite my friends to join, but being alone is just as fun.

My absolute favorite self-care practice is going to the happiest place on earth, the arcade. I love to play games so a building full of different games is my happy place.

I always make sure I play the basketball games, even though I am a soccer player at heart. Whether I come home with a few pieces of candy or a large stuffed animal, I will always have fun.

Even when I do not have a Valentine, I always buy my friends gifts. This year I decided that instead of getting everyone else gifts, I would get myself a gift. I am just as important as the people around me so I should treat myself every once in a while because I overcome all the stresses and challenges of being a college student.

Overall, I love the way I take care of myself but everyone has their personal preferences on what that looks like for them.

Some other suggestions for people to check out, besides the ones I mentioned are, journaling, meditation, exercise, setting goals and eating healthy.

There are plenty of other ways to take care of yourself; getting started is the first step in what could be a beautiful journey of self-love.

The Renaissance of Self-Love: Masculine Mentality

By Gabriel Woodard, Digital Media Producer

The dream is that men would see themselves as individuals before support systems.

According to the Webster’s Dictionary, self-love is defined as an appreciation of one’s worth or virtue. This term has a different perspective for each person, leading it to have different practices for each person.

Because self-love looks different for everyone, one of the biggest aspects of self-love is its tie to men and mental health. In today’s time, mental health has become a very important matter as people pay more attention to their emotions and mental space.

In many societies, gender roles and expectations have historically assigned certain roles, behaviors and responsibilities to men. For years men have been understood to be pillars of the community.

Common societal expectations for men may include being providers, protectors and leaders; although these expectations are changing as societies progress toward greater gender equality.

For Joshua Parris, a junior male liberal studies student here at A&T, self-love looks like feeling comfortable in what he does.

“Self-love is doing whatever I feel serves me to make me comfortable in my capabilities of doing my responsibilities,” Parris said.

It’s great that he has the idea of making himself happy and comfortable but I believe society has trained our minds, as men, to prepare ourselves in every aspect of life to help or do something for other people and things.

Why can’t we ensure our happiness and comfort, for our enjoy-

ment?

“I’ve always been around selflove because of my upbringing,” said Asa Patterson, a male sophomore mass media student.

The timing and technique of the introduction of self-love are vital to how a person perceives the expression.

“When I was younger, right after my first break up, my mom took me to the movies, which is not something she would do often. Going to the movies, she got me ice cream all because of the breakup and told me, ‘You need to do things for you solely,’” Parris shared.

This one action is when it clicked for Parris that putting his emotions first mattered most. He continues to exercise this mentality today, through his version of self-care.

To some, there isn’t a difference between self-love and self-care. I believe there is a thin line that defines loving yourself and caring for yourself.

Self-love consists of the mentality of treasuring oneself and all of what makes you, you. Self-care embraces the actions of treating oneself to satisfy one’s heart.

There are a lot of ways for men to make themselves happy that aren’t talked about or thought about because of the negative connotation and thought process of the community.

“Listening to music, lighting a candle and meditating, manicures and journaling,” are just a few ways Parris says he practices selfcare.

A lot of men hear manicures and think, “Oh, that’s feminine and I want no parts.” That thought pro-

cess is what I, along with some others, consider toxic masculinity.

Not only is getting manicured a practice of self-care and relaxation, but it provides a cleaner physical appearance and proof of self-care.

self to understand where you are and what you’re working on as an individual.

“Appreciating being me a little more day by day is something I’ve found myself doing recently

Of course, it may not be for everyone, but there are many other options a lot of men fail to realize provide more than just self-care such as self-reflection, prioritizing sleep, emotional expression, setting boundaries, seeking professional guidance, eating healthy and regular exercise.

The dream is that men would see themselves as individuals before support systems. Society places these limitations on men, sometimes leading them to isolation and avoidance.

As you begin to understand how you express yourself, you learn what you appreciate from others as they love you.

It takes quality time with one-

as I have come to find that’s been something I struggled with a little before, in the past,” Patterson explained.

Toxic masculinity is contagious in the way that we as men, take what we hear and unconsciously apply it to ourselves. We allow outside factors to play a huge role in how we treat ourselves.

In today’s society, we must express self-love before any other act of love to ensure a healthy masculine mentality.

Heartwarming Valentine’s Gifts To Spark Aggie Love

By Dasia Williams, theCULTURE Co-Lead Reporter

Roses are red, violets are blue, got an Aggie on the brain, here’s how you should treat your boo.

Aggie love is in the air as Valentine’s Day approaches, and the joy of gift-giving is sparking the love languages.

Maybe you and your valentine met freshman year and know each other well. Or you may have met during the fall semester and are still getting to know each other.

No matter the case, set a flame to your Aggie love story by gifting unique, affordable and timeless gifts to your lady or man. Don’t be afraid to throw in a fluffy teddy bear or a box of chocolate as a companion gift.

Candlelight Symphony

Indulge in the magical ambiance of the Candlelight Symphony concert at the Hayti Heritage Center in Durham, NC.

Immerse a loved one in a 60-minute live, multi-sensory musical experience featuring the enchanting melodies of “Romeo and Juliet” and more, all illuminated by the gentle glow of candlelight. Secure

your tickets for this Valentine’s Day Special now and witness the extraordinary fusion of music and ambiance.

Embrace the ambiance in assigned seating on a first-come, first-served basis, ensuring an intimate experience.

Discover the accessibility and age requirements, and for an even more exclusive encounter, explore the option to book a private concert for 15 or more people.

Unveil the magic and musicality at this extraordinary event, promising an unforgettable Valentine’s celebration.

The price per ticket ranges from $28 to $45. To book your appointment in advance, visit their Instagram page @candlelight.concerts.

Long-Lasting Roses

Rupiah Kar, an American poet, said, “This love is the rose that blooms forever.” A beautiful bouquet of roses will always be a timeless gift that women will appreciate. One small business, Rosepops, is creating ways to make moments last with affordable, long-lasting flower arrangements.

vide the best-preserved petals. Every Rose Pop set provides space for a personalized message to be sent to your loved one.

By keeping the Rosepop out of direct sunlight, your roses will remain robust for many months and even up to a year.

A single Rosepop from the Valentine’s Day Collection is $46. You can order up to a dozen Rosepops at www.rosepops. com.

Personalized Scrapbook

In a world where everyone is used to digital photos and Snapchat memories, taking the time to create a personalized scrapbook is the perfect way to show your love for someone.

The point of making a scrapbook is to show how much you love someone. It is such an unconventional gift that it will speak volumes about your affection for the recipient. Take the time, unleash your creativity, and make someone happy this holiday gifting season.

Personalized Edible Arrangement

Lastly, treat your sweettoothed friend with an edible arrangement made with fresh fruits, gourmet chocolate, and other irresistible treats that are sure to bring a smile to his or her face.

You can customize an arrangement today at Edible Arrangements on Battleground Avenue, or you can visit ediblearrangements.com to see the plethora of unique options offered. Prices range from $30 to $200.

Let these unique and thoughtful gifts be the embodiment of your heartfelt sentiments.

Every present, whether it’s an edible arrangement, a personalized scrapbook, a spa day, or long-lasting roses, is a symbol of the unwavering love that grows among Aggies.

May this Valentine’s Day be filled with joy, connection, and the warmth of Aggie love.

Rosepops works exclusively with farms in Ecuador that pro-

The perfect Aggie love story

By Aniya Misher, theCULTURE Co-Lead Reporter

Outside of their education, N.C. A&T students are looking for new experiences to enhance their college experience.

While joining a new organization or going to the hottest party may be fun, many students find enjoyment in looking to find their “Aggie Love Story” during their four years on campus.

Senior honors biology pre-medical student Alyssa Lopez and senior chemistry student Jeremy Gibson are some of the lucky ones who found their Aggie love during their sophomore year.

“We met on March 14, 2022, in the Student Center and the rest is history,” Gibson said.

Gibson is a Healthy Brother, Healthy Sister peer facilitator, and the chaplain for the ETA chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.

Lopez and Gibson met at Lopez’s cousin’s campaign team meeting for junior class president.

“I came in late, so I was trying not to be seen,” explained Gibson. “But when I sat down, she [Lopez] was right across from me. She had on a mask but her eyes were very pretty.”

From Salisbury, North Carolina, Lopez serves as a Healthy Brother, Healthy Sister peer facilitator, the secretary for the National Society of Leadership and Success, the social media chair for Big Brother, Big Sister, and is an active member of many other organizations on campus and in the local Greensboro community.

During the campaign meeting in the Student Center, Lopez and Gibson admired each other’s mannerisms and the way one another took over the room.

“He was just trying to make the room laugh, but still giving his input and being the leader that he is,” explained Lopez. “But what drew me to him was the fact that he was wearing a cross necklace and the entire time he was talking about his family.”

As the oldest child and a woman of faith, Lopez recognized the important qualities they both shared.

After the meeting, Lopez and Gibson spent time getting to know

each other and even realized they had been in the same class the entire semester.

When realizing how deeply they felt for each other, Gibson knew it was time to pop the question. He came to her family’s home with flowers and Crumbl cookies with a prepared speech to ask, “Will you be my girlfriend?” Now the couple celebrates July 19, 2022, as their anniversary.

Many students may come to college wanting to find their own love story. The couple shared their advice on having a healthy relationship as a college student.

“When people try to find a relationship, they are too picky, as if people are perfect, and they aren’t,” Lopez said. “No one is going to meet all of your needs.”

As the couple approaches graduation season in May, Lopez and Gibson plan to continue their relationship as long-distance, no matter how hard it gets.

“I am willing to work for it because I care for and love her,” Gibson said. “And I am going to set the record straight, I will be marrying her.”

What do HBCU college friendships mean to people?

By Haley Pender, theSCENE Lead Reporter

College is a very transformative time in a young adult’s life for several reasons. It’s the first time many students are away from home and they have to make adult decisions on their own. It’s also a time that marks the beginning of navigating the journey of adult friendships.

Going to a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) is popular for enriching this experience for Black students. HBCUs are the melting pot for Black young adults to meet like-minded high-achieving individuals from various backgrounds.

Students at these institutions are allowed to build friendships with their professors and the next generation of Black doctors, lawyers, engineers and more.

This has led HBCUs to be called a “link to a treasured legacy” according to The New York Times.

Furthermore, the saying, “Your network is your net worth” is a sentiment that N.C. A&T students often hear.

It is practiced by organizations like the National Association of

Black Engineers and others of the same caliber. Many students have made friendships through these career-related groups.

“I’ve heard many times that you should surround yourself with people that are better than you,” said senior mass media student, Tinya Martin. “These club GroupMes give students who are aspiring to excel in their career path the chance to connect with upperclassmen like myself, who know the ropes a little.”

However, some have made friends on campus in a more relaxed environment. Places like the Student Center and apps like X, formerly known as Twitter, GroupMe and Instagram have played vital roles in helping students spark relationships in college.

Sophomore health service management student, Christian Cannon shared how using GroupMe provided her with a community that can relate to the hardships of her major.

“Having people who support you through your ups and downs is important. It makes me feel like I have an extra family when we’re in group chats and able to bond over failing a quiz or missing an attendance code one day.”

Students have still been able to maintain solid connections despite the modern ways they communicate with each other.

Nya Evans is a sophomore bioengineering student who views friendships as a space to belong and feel supported.

“They provide a sense of be-

longing, to put it in short. My friend Mariah is like my family because we’ve been there for each other through everything since we met,” Evans shared. “She helped with my Director of Communications campaign for the University Honors College and I helped her run for Miss Sophomore.”

Sophomore psychology student Taia Monroe shared how her friends keep her even-kill in the stressful college atmosphere.

“College is a stressful time, especially for students like myself, who are out of state,” Monroe said. “Having friends who encourage you to embrace the journey, push you, and support your academic goals and ambitions is essential to success.”

Monroe’s sentiment is intriguing yet common for students who are coming a long way from home. The power of HBCU success is known worldwide, and students like her prove that.

Caleb McCoy, a sophomore biological engineering student from Atlanta, proves this as well. The honors student explained why he thinks college friendships are a necessity for the undergraduate experience.

“I feel like college friendships mean to me what Kool-Aid is with sugar. I feel lame and dull without my friends, kind of like how Kool-Aid is without the sugar,” he explained. “My friends keep me in high spirits and I appreciate them for that.”

McCoy and his two closest friends, who are from Atlanta as well, grew closer during their

freshman year at A&T. The group also consists of Miles Norwood (Mr. Sophomore) and Prince Harrell.

Though the future is unknown for current undergraduates, students are confident that the decisions and relationships they make in college can help them grow and see things more clearly.

The Depths of Black Love

By Gabrielle Howard, General Assignment Reporter

February is not only Black History Month but a month about love. Valentine’s Day is a significant holiday for many people, whether you celebrate it romantically with a partner or just with your friends. This month is usually the time when many around the world show how much they care for their loved ones.

However, the love often portrayed in most mainstream media fails to represent Black love. Many people also have different definitions of what Black love is and what it looks like. But what is it?

The truth is that Black love is unique to each individual and has no label.

With its diverse range and the depth of what it can be, Black love is seen as a representation of the many relationships that show compassion, unity, care and so much more, for each other within our community.

The sisterhood and brotherhood of true friendship is a prime example.

Grey Coleman, a senior kinesiology student explained how sisterhood transcends all bounds and how important Black sisterhood specifically is to her.

”There’s no one else who can relate to you more than a Black woman as a Black woman. It’s easy for them to relate to me and we also have shared experiences,” Coleman said.

On the flip side as a Black man, unity is key, and having friends that allow you to be yourself, and break outside the mold of stereotypes is also extremely important.

Jasani Mohammed, a senior kinesiology major explained how crucial it is to have that brotherhood.

“I think when it comes to Black people, especially men in general, we’re supposed to be very headstrong and individualized people. I think it’s important to have those relationships and people you can rely on,” Mohammed said.

The love you get from genuine friends provides you with the support and growth that’s needed to allow you to change.

Antoine Fields, a sophomore journalism and mass communication student, explained the importance of strengthening the Black community and the relationships in it.

“Friendships get you through life. We as Black people should build with each other and love each other,” Fields shared.

Being surrounded by love is important says Mohammed who views Black love as an important way to have a community or partner who truly understands the Black experience.

”I feel like the most happiness a human can feel is experiencing and loving somebody, so I think Black love is really important because as Black people we understand each other,” he

explained.

The decline of Black love can be traced back hundreds of years, to when the Black family was destroyed due to slavery, Jim Crow Laws, or the aftermath of these events.

Coleman emphasizes the importance of having Black love represented in a family unit and touches on how historical events have worked to destroy it.

“I think Black love is important, especially because we’ve been stripped of the ability for years because of Jim Crow laws and slavery; to be able to share a family with other Black people,” Coleman expressed. “So I think it’s really important for people to date people who look like them.”

Over the years and throughout history Black love has transcended all bounds and is something to be treasured. Whether platonic or romantic Black love is of utmost significance and importance. With February being a significant pillar of both, make sure you spend this month giving love and appreciation to those close to you.

The love for the art of creativity

By Nicole Neal, theSCENE Editor

Creativity is such a simple word but holds so much power behind it. It can be translated into many meanings.

As college students, we come from all over and bring different things that make N.C. A&T a melting pot of creativity. And between the different creative branches comes a love from within.

Creativity can be personal to each individual but one may wonder why they are creative and the inspiration behind their work.

Zeric Smith, a sophomore mass communications student, owns his clothing brand, Fairzone. Smith’s creative outlet is fueled by the support of his family and friends.

“The death of my cousin Kinnie Utley also gave me the driving force to inspire others through fashion,” Smith shared.

With his brand, Smith has been able to share his art and love for fashion with his closest friends.

“My friends wearing my brand and seeing them wear it consistently also makes me proud of myself, overall I love the way my brand makes other people feel,” he said.

He has also been able to reach far, from famous Youtubers to pro-basketball players supporting his brand.

“Influencers such as famous TikToker Yungeman, the YouTuber LOBChris, and basketball star Treymaine Parker wearing my brand on their platform shows me that I am doing something right and that makes me happy,” Smith shared.

Having a creative outlet can help your mental health and serve as a form of expression. These hobbies can help stretch your knowledge about different things and challenge you to think beyond the knowledge used in the classroom.

Amiyr Ahmad, a freshman aerospace engineering student, is a sports videographer and filmmaker. He had been doing videography before coming to A&T and then dove into filmmaking after arriving.

As an engineer and sports videographer, he can take nothing and turn it into something.

“This process makes me happy because every time I start to edit it’s a clean slate and when I finish I get to see what I would hope to be my best work,” Ahmad explained.

When you are fully in your creative zone it can make you feel many emotions. Some can bring you back to your childhood and some can make you feel amazing.

Carolyn “Coah” Adams, a senior journalism and mass media public relations student is a singer and songwriter. Starting at a young age she started writing songs and it has taken her to her senior year of college.

Adam’s creative outlet helps her feel certain emotions in ways that can only be done through the art of singing out her emotions

“It makes me feel beautiful, confident, and special because I know my talent is one of a kind,” she shared.

Finding love for something can come in different ways. Having a creative outlet can bring something out of you that you’d never expect. It can bring out a love that no human can give you but only one you can give yourself.

Valentine’s Day Songs

By Nyhiem Russell, Contributor

Valentine’s Day has arrived! Here are some song recommendations to celebrate the mood the right way.

You - Llyod ft Lil Wayne

Let Me Love You - Mario

If I Ever Fall In Love - Shai

With You - Chris Brown

Your Always On Mind- SWV

Dangerously in Love - Beyonce

Real Love - Mary J Blige

My Boo - Usher ft Alicia Keys

Lady- D'angelo

My First Love - Avant ft Keke Wyatt

Weak- SWV

Lovers And Friends - Lil Jon ft Usher Ludacris

Love - Musiq Soulchild

Loveeeeee Song- Rihanna ft Future

Find Your Love - Drake

Come and Talk to Me (Remix) - Jodeci

Maleia Bracone’s Love for Basketball Runs Deep

By Ashton Griffith, theSCORE Co-Lead Reporter

For athletes to be dedicated to the sport they play, they must love it first. For N.C. A&T women’s basketball star Maleia Bracone, the love for her sport has always been with her.

Bracone’s love for basketball began at a very young age. Her father would start bringing basketball into her life at the age of five in her hometown of Anderson, South Carolina.

“My dad coached me at a YMCA league with all boys when I was five up until I was about 12,” Bracone said. “My mom had to sit my dad down and tell him that I needed to play with girls because I was just getting beat up by them.”

The lady Aggies basketball star would spend her summers playing AAU basketball and compet-

ing against other girls across the nation. This would lead Bracone to meet with scouts and other coaches.

Bracone believes her relationship and love for basketball have benefitted her tremendously.

“My relationship with basketball has helped me a lot. It’s put me in a lot of different places where I was able to grow as a player,” Bracone said. “Outside of basketball, it’s also helped me reach out and connect with people.”

Bracone is a combo guard who was a Division I transfer from Presbyterian College. After transferring in June of 2022, Bracone had a great first season for the Aggies. Shooting 40.5 percent from the floor and 33 percent from 3-point range. Bracone would go on to earn third-team All-CAA honors and a spot on the CAA’s all-defensive team.

The guard scored 20 or more points four times during the season and posted three or more steals 18 times throughout the season. She was also ranked second in the CAA in steals, fifth in three-point field goal percentage and ninth in assists.

The All-CAA defensive guard describes her relationship with her sport as a natural love.

“I feel like everybody kind of has a love-hate relationship with the stuff that they enjoy doing. I know the reasons why I play. Playing for my family and myself brings out a different side that nobody sees. I’m mostly a quiet and shy person, but it’s totally different on the court,” Bracone shared.

“There’s a lot of art with basketball that people don’t really see as much.”

On Feb. 2, Bracone helped maintain an 18-6 lead into the second quarter in a game against the UNC Wilmington Seahawks, as she scored off of a crucial steal by one of her teammates, Taila Davis.

Continuing to love and be dedicated to the sport she plays has always been a part of the plan for Bracone. As her time at A&T is coming to an end, Bracone is looking to take her love for the game to the next level and possibly overseas.

“Plan A is to play overseas and play professionally, hopefully,” Bracone expressed. “Whether that’s having a chance to go for the draft or just going overseas

and traveling, that’s kind of my main plan for a few years.”

The mark for the combo guard from Anderson, South Carolina, is only just beginning to be made.

N.C. A&T coaches share a special love for the game

By Aniyah Beck, theSCORE Co-Lead Reporter

Behind every team, there is a coach who is the backbone. The head coach position isn’t one to take lightly.

Here at N.C. A&T, a few coaches have impacted their players through their love for the game.

Women’s Basketball Head Coach Tarrell Robinson was named the sixth head coach in program history in May 2012.

Robinson has had a long, effective career with Aggie athletics, dating back to his time as a player from 1997 to 2001. Throughout his time with Aggie athletics, he has been named the program’s winningest coach, holding numerous championships under his belt and appearing in several postseasons.

Junior point guard Jordyn Dorsey shared her appreciation for her coach this season.

“The coaching is amazing,” Dorsey said. “The chemistry and connections have influenced our gameplay play, contributing to our success thus far.”

This season under Coach Robinson, the Lady Aggies have moved from eighth in the CAA to first, naming several members as team players of the week and holding an eight-game winning streak.

“It’s just a blessing to coach these young women,” Robinson said. “It’s a blessing the way that they respond.”

The Lady Aggies plan to continue to have a monumental season with Coach Robinson as their

leader.

From the winter to the spring, another coach that has been rooted in A&T athletics has been head baseball coach, Ben Hall.

Hall was brought onto the A&T baseball staff as an interim head baseball coach in 2014. After his first season in that position, Hall was quickly named the permanent head coach of the baseball team. Making him the 10th head coach in A&T baseball history.

Throughout his tenure with the program, he has led the Aggies to multiple MEAC championships, defeating many Power Five teams.

Throughout his time in Aggieland, he contributed to the Aggies’ appearance in the NCAA tournament.

During his season in 2017, he orchestrated one of the nation’s best Division I program come-

backs. From 13 wins to a 15-9 conference record in the MEAC, Hall was awarded MEAC Coach of the Year. He was only the second coach in school history to have accomplished this milestone.

Team leader and outfielder TJ Ash expressed his appreciation for Coach Hall.

“He was a factor in me coming into this program,” Ash said. “He treats us like family.”

The Aggie baseball team hopes to have another breakout season this year in War Park Memorial Stadium.

Coaching contributes to the success of any program. Our coaches have inspired and supported, and continue to do so, our players on and off the field.

Meet The A&T Register Staff

Kaila Collier Senior Editor

Gabriel Woodard

Tatjana Sowell theYard co-lead reporter

Michael Cartwright theYard co-lead reporter

Kajuan Durer

Steven Matthews theWord co-lead reporter

Mattie Moore theCulture Editor

Aniyah Beck

Nicole Neal

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

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