Saturday, May 10, 2014

The Student Voice of Howard University est. 1924

thehilltoponline.com

Vol. 98 No.22

The Commencement Issue

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THE HILLTOP | SATURDAY, MAY 10, 2014

The Hilltop Newspaper

Glynn Hill Editor-in-Chief

Dominique Diggs Chief Managing

EditorIndigo Silva

Multimedia Editor

Emmy VictorCampus Editor

Keneisha DeasMetro EditorMaya Cade

Life & Style Editor Khari ArnoldSports Editor

Daniel WhiteOpinions Editor

Tasia Hawkins Staff Writer

Jourdan HenryStaff Writer

Siniyah SmithStaff Writer

Erin Van Dunk Staff Writer

Shannen HillStaff WriterPrecious

Osagie-EreseStaff Writer

Nile KendallStaff WriterSteven Hall

ColumnistMarc Rivers

Columnist

Rachel Cumberbatch

Photo Editor

Karrie LeonardEditorial AssistantJasmine NealyEditorial Assistant

Katie DownsCartoonist

The Hilltop encourages its read-ers to share their opinions with the newspaper through letters to the editor or perspectives. All letters should include a complete address and telephone number and should

be sent electronically to diggs@thehilltoponline.com.

All inquiries for advertisements should be sent directly to

The Hilltop Business office at:campusadvertising@thehilltoponline.com

localadvertising@thehilltoponline.com

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Dominique Diggs Managing Editor

Q&A with Interim President Dr. Wayne Frederick

This 2013-2014 school year has experienced some of the most monumental changes for Howard University in the past few years. From the resignation of our previ-ous president to the appointment of a new CFO, the bookstore being purchased by Starbucks, changes to the course override system, HUSA grants becoming a HUSA loan, and so much more.

As Dr. Frederick came into the Presidential position with a vision of helping his alma mater to be-come its ultimate best, the Hilltop sat down with him one last time before the class of 2014 officially says goodbye.

Q: How was this overall year for the University? PF: I think it was a very solid year. We obviously had a lot of change taking place, but I think we’ve man-aged the change successfully. I think the key was to keep things steady while we were making the changes and make sure that we were pro-gressing and I think that we were able to accomplish that.

Q: How would you rate your ad-ministrations transparency this year, on a scale of 1 to 5 (5 being the most transparent)?

PF: From my perspective, I would give it a 5+ because we have been very transparent. We put a lot of information out about everything that we’ve been doing, from campus and safety to finances to what we’re doing with the Center for Academic Excellence. I’ve had the Bison Beat – we put one of those out every month so there have been a

Q: How have employment resigna-tions and other adjustments to staff appointments affected the Univer-sity morale?

PF: In terms of Dr. Griffin, she didn’t resign. She actually had put in for a sabbatical in my predeces-sor’s previous administration so I just honored her request. She has done the University a great service. Her job was of a high intensity and I wanted to give her that time before she transitioned back into a classroom, I told her it was the right thing to do.

With respect to other turnovers, the only other key position that I turned over was the CFO. It was a contractive agreement that I felt had benefitted the University and had run its course and I felt that it was time for us to have a full time employee in that position.

Q: Much of the student criticism of the “Howard experience” is rooted in administrative shortcomings, i.e. inadequate or overwhelmed academic advisors, inefficiency in the A-Building, etc. Are these valid points? What are your plans to ad-dress these concerns?

PF: My administration is focused on making sure that there is improvement in all of those areas. With respect to academic advi-sors, I have started the process of converting the Center for Academic Reinforcement to the Center for Academic Excellence. Part of that move is to increase academic advis-ing so we have those jobs posted. We’re hiring over the summer.

I think when students come back; they’ll see that academic advising will be well positioned to support them appropriately. In terms of the other administrative issues, I’ve made a lot of changes to try to get more things done in an electronic fashion to make it more efficient so we don’t do overrides, for instance anymore.

We’ve also purchased software to help with degree auditing so that when students register, they will immediately get an update and ap-propriate flags are sent to advisors to let them know of the progress that they are making or if they’re behind – the advisors can give them suggestions on what can get them moving forward. I think all of those previous mentioned things will help in terms of the efficiency around academics.

I also really want to focus on using

more technology – trying to really maximize on how we use tech-nology to make everything more efficient.

Q: What other changes can the Howard community expect to see next year?

PF: The other changes that I would hope for them to see are within the residence halls. I’d like to see within all of the residence halls, more of an active learning community so the student areas within these residence halls – should be more up to date and functional for studying.

I would also like for people to notice that there is an increased attention around retention and graduation. We know for now that most of our students drop out because of financ-es, etc. but we have an increased awareness of that and we’re trying to really bring that to the forefront to make sure that it’s enhanced.

I’d like to increase and enhance our participation within honors programs and scholarships such as Rhode Scholars, Luard Scholars, etc. so we have a more proactive campaign around that to identify students earlier and bring them into that realm.

We are doing a lot with the inter-national study abroad program; I would really like to expand that to see more students getting a study abroad experience so we’re trying to get things in place so we can have an expansion on that as well. Career counseling and job place-ment is another area of increased focus for us.

I want for students to very early on have support around making career choices and then once it comes to the process of interviewing and get-ting internships, we plan to allocate resources to help students with that so that they can get into the job market and immediately become productive once they graduate.

Q: Standing at the end of this year, how would you describe the “How-ard experience”? Has it changed into the “New Howard”? Do you think it needs improvement?

PF: This institution is a treasure; it’s an international treasure. It’s a spe-cial place and for me in particular, it’s a humbling experience to be the interim President of this institution. When I hear people use the term “New Howard,” I see it in terms of us meeting the challenges of higher education today: How can we keep the costs down? How can we sup-port our financially disadvantaged students?

How can we bring people here who have not had the opportunity, to not just get the opportunity but to get That’s what I see as the challenge, so when people describe the “New Howard,” I simply see a Howard that’s responding to the new envi-ronment and responding to that the new environment in the best way possible -- not to be just average or good but to be the best.

I see Howard as being the best option for higher education. I want people, when they apply to Howard, to know that they’re coming here to get a great education and that they’re going to go out and change the communities around them be-cause of our focus on service. That means to me that we have to do lots of things that we probably haven’t done in the past but we have to do now, we have to be a more efficient operation.

We have to provide academic advising and those types of things to support students’ education in a better way. We have to have a better instructional environment so when people come to the classrooms or when they come to labs; they are in facilities that are world-class.

We also really have to elevate the types of people that come to our campus to speak and to interact with our students. It’s incredible. We have CEOS of major corpora-tions, world leaders, etc. and we have to emphasize that more. We have to let that be part of the col-lege experience.

Photo courtesy of Howard University News Service

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Precious Osagie-Erese Staff Writer

“Gone too soon” was fellow Howard University Bison, Donald A. Hill, Jr. Bearing the Howard University mantra of “truth and service,” scholar and friend Donald Hill would have been a part of the graduating class of 2014, receiving a Bachelors of Arts degree in Com-munications and Culture.

At the tender age of 20, Hill passed away on Dec. 19 at his home in Winston-Salem, N.C. He is the oldest son born to Reverend Donald A. Hill, Sr. and Lisa R. Hill. It was a dream for Hill to attend Howard University, and while his time at the Mecca was cut short, Hill spent his time actively pursing his goals and serving others.

“It was very hard for us all when Donald passed. He was so young, vibrant and healthy. Many called Donald my little brother,” Direc-tor of Chapel Operations Glen Vinson, Jr. said. “We spent everyday together in preparation for Alterna-tive Spring Break, and in a blink of an eye he was gone. We were all without words.”

During the School of Communi-cations graduation ceremony on Friday, May 9 in Burr Gymnasium, a small memorial will take place in Hill’s honor. The School of Communications will decorate the chair where Hill would have sat with his cap, gown, honors, medal and cords. Accepting his certifi cate of completion will be his mother, father and brother.

It was an important decision for the University to make in regards to recognizing Hill. He touched many people in many ways. The memo-rial is to celebrate his legacy and

honor the accomplishment of our fallen Bison.

In his time at Howard, Hill left an impact that touched the lives of many. During his freshman year at Howard, Hill put his athletic talent towards the football team, but soon realized his passion for academics, social justice and ministry would lead him down a different path.

Hill was an Annenberg honor stu-dent in the School of Communica-tions. He was also a chapel assistant and a coordinator for Alternative Spring Break Chicago as he was dedicated to enhancing the global community. His intelligence in the classroom and service to the com-munity did not go unnoticed by classmates and faculty.

Associate Dean of the Chapel Rev. Kanika Magee believes that Donald embodied the true meaning of Howard’s legacy.

“Donald was a servant, he lived to help people,” Magee said. “He would give anything he had to help whether he knew them or not. I am happy that he will continue to be remembered.”

Fallen Bison Donald A. Hill, Jr. will not be at graduation physically, but his spirit will live on.

“Donald Hill was one of the most warm hearted persons you would have ever met. His contagious smile would invite you in,” Vinson said. “Once you were in Donald’s charm, you became his friend instantly as his caring personality and genuine spirit acted as a beacon calling you into his presence.”

Donald Hill Honored During SOC Graduation

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Hillʼs graduation materials were prepared for School of Communications.

Howard University to Award Record Number of

Doctoral DegreesSholnn Freeman

Communications Specialist

View From Howard U.

WEATHER

Campus PrideHoward University joined Morris Brown College and

Oakwood University as winners of the Home

Depot $25,000 Campus Pride grant.

WHCAJuniors Victoria Walker, Thema Fenderson, and Glynn Hill were named White House Correspon-dents Association scholar-

ship recipients. Hill won the Harry S. McAlpin, Jr. schol-arship, named after the fi rst African American to attend a White House press confer-

ences.

NFL DraftThe Houston Texans selected Jadeveon Clowney, a defen-sive end from the University of South Carolina fi rst over-

all. The draft continues today at noon with rounds 4-7.

In the News:Editor’s Picks

“US experts join • hunt for abducted

Nigerian schoolgirls” (via BBC Africa)

“Have American poli-• tics killed the impar-tial Supreme Court?”

(The Washington Post)

“5 Good Things • and 5 Bad Things That Happened

After Brown v. Board“ (The Root)

“Cashing in on • Keystone“ (Politico)

“Africa: World • Economic Forum Africa, Not What You Imagine“

(AllAfrica.com)

Tomorrow Partly Cloudy

High 84Low 64

Photo by Glynn Hill

Howard University, one of the na-tion’s leading research universities, will confer 105 Ph.D. degrees in the 2014 graduating class. The number represents the largest doctoral de-gree class in Howard’s history.

Howard University holds a unique role in the production of doctoral recipients, especially among African Americans, who proceed to posi-tions within the nation’s university faculties, research centers and insti-tutes. This year’s large doctoral class preserves Howard’s lead as the top producer of on-campus doctoral degrees in the United States – a lead the institution has maintained since 1996. Howard has long been recognized for its outsized role in establishing and sustaining the pro-

fessional class of African Americans in the United States.

Howard Interim President Wayne A.I. Frederick, who received his M.D. and M.B.A. from Howard, said diversity in the nation’s schol-arly and professional community fuels innovation and creativity.

Howard University offers 28 Ph.D. degree programs. Prior to this year, Howard’s largest Ph.D. total was 101 recipients in the 2008 graduat-ing class. Howard awarded its fi rst doctoral degree in 1958.

Commencement exercises take place on Saturday, May 10, 2014, on the main campus in Washington, D.C.

Home Depot Reveals Howard University Retool

Your School Winner

Sholnn FreemanCommunications Specialist

Howard University has been named a winner in Home Depot’s 2014 RETOOL YOUR SCHOOL Campus Improvement Grant Pro-gram, which is designed to rein-vigorate historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). Howard was one of three schools to win in the $25,000 Campus Pride Award category.

Howard University’s proposed improvement projects are focused on constructing a much-needed exterior plaza for shuttle bus pas-sengers waiting in front of Cramton Auditorium.“This year the Howard University

community stepped up to win this award,” said Alfonzye Chisholm, director of the Offi ce of Sustain-ability. “The winning project is one that we’ve wanted to build for awhile; and we are very happy we will be able to implement it.”

The new plaza will be constructed to allow for more space, accessibil-ity and comfort for shuttle riders. A design competition will be held in conjunction with the School of Architecture for a fi nal design. Con-sideration for eco-friendly lighting, material and sustainable landscap-ing will also be taken into account in the design.

Photo via fl ickr.com, BAR Photography

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Maya CadeLife & Style Editor

The big day has finally arrived -- after months of careful planning of next steps and summer plans, the little things such as “where-am-I-going-to-eat-brunch-at-today” can quickly become an afterthought. But don’t worry, The Hilltop has got you covered with a comprehen-sive brunch guide that will please every type of eater and every type of budget.

Ted’s Bulletin, 1818 14th St. NW

A skip-and-a-hop from campus will lead you to Ted’s Bulletin. This ‘retro’ feel eatery as everything from divine milkshakes to in-house made pop-tarts. The real steal on the menu is the “Big Marc Break-fast” which includes a house-made pop-tart, two pieces of bacon and sausage, hash browns, toast, and eggs any way you like them for $13.29. Did a non-brunch lover tag along? Ted’s Bulletin also features a large-ranging menu with everything from Louisiana inspired gumbo to vegetarian lasagna.

Tap & Parlour, 2011 11th St. NW

$7 bottomless Mimosas. Again, $7 bottomless Mimosas. Besides their $7 bottomless Mimosas, Tap & Parlour has a cool neo-soul vibe and your typical brunch items that won’t break the bank. But hey, sometimes that’s all you really need.

Regent Thai Cuisine, 1910 18th St. NW

Tired of the typical bacon and eggs song and dance? The Regent may be your way out of that brunch tan-go. Located just outside the hustle and bustle of Dupont Circle, the Regent is surprisingly serene and 9-times-out-ten larger parties can be seated without hesitation. The food is fresh while also incorporating the right blend of spices. If you’re a fan of spicy food -- welcome home.

Busboys and Poets, 2021 14th St. NW

Graduation Brunch Guide

John WilsonContributing Writer

As commencement approaches, those moving on from The Mecca may find themselves experiencing a wide rage of feelings. Whether it be the joy of clearing your holds in time for graduation, the fear of what is to come after crossing that stage May 10, the warm feelings of reminiscing on times spent here in the Nation’s Capital or introspec-tively summing up these past four years, here are a few words from songs that should resonate with you, either now or later:

“Good Morning” – Kanye West

On this day we become legendary/Everything we dreamed of…..From the moments of pain, look how far we done came/Haters saying you changed, now you doing your thing. Kanye’s college dropout themed album series rounded off with its third and final installment, Gradu-ation, in the fall of 2007. And though there is a plethora of con-tent throughout all three regarding the ups and downs of life, school, and life in school, “Good Morning” speaks to the masses by summing up all of the trials and tribulations of the college experience, and giving hope and reassurance for the day, as well as the many to come after commencement.

“Wake Up” – Big K.R.I.T.

I know today’s gonna be the best day of my life… Stop talking and listen/Cause in the blink of an eye your life will pass you by and Good

Celebrate with These Nine Graduation Songs

What is a comprehensive brunch guide without the mention of Busboys? This well-known res-taurant has an extensive brunch menu that will be loved by even the pickiest eater. Whether someone is feeling in the mood for an omelet, fresh fruit, or beef chili -- Busboys has it all, including books and art to browse while you wait for your table. Bonus: This eclectic and fun restaurant is is in walking distance from campus.

Eatonville, 2121 14th St. NW

Eatonville, a restaurant inspired by Hilltop co-founder, Zora Neale Hurston, is a popular soul-food inspired spot in The District. This eatery, a mainstay in the heart of U St., has everything from shrimp and grits to catfish po boys. Whether you’re in need of your soul food fix throughout the weekend or need a place to lay down all the troubles you’ve acquired throughout the past four years -- Eatonville is just the place.

El Centro DF, 1819 14th St. NW

This modern mexican restaurant has a quirky and fun atmosphere and bottomless brunch on the week-ends. Yes, all-you-can-eat brunch! The all-you-can-eat brunch is $35 per person but has a wide-ranging menu that includes bottomless mimosas in the price. You can wine and dine and try the entire menu in one sitting if that suits your fancy.

Kafe Leopold, 3315 Cady’s Alley NW

This quaint and cute German-inspired eatery in the heart of Georgetown has something for the adventurer in all of us. The food and atmosphere are buzzworthy. Though few patrons have com-plained about the service many say it is redeemed by the quality taste of the food. Kafe Leopold has many European-inspired breakfast options that range from croissants to mac-roon samplers.

Lord you missed it.

Piggybacking off West’s “Good Morning”, “Wake Up” is two minutes and forty-six seconds of hu-mility, deference, and reassurance. Resonating in the same realm as West’s first person graduation tale, K.R.I.T. takes more of a stance in advising caution, and for his listen-ers to dig deep within themselves moving forward. Things we all need to hear.

“Closer” – Goapele

I’m moving upward and onward and beyond all I can see…Feels so close it’s like I can just reach/I can feel my dreams.

Goapele’s most notable song “Closer” reaffirms the idea that hard work pays off. Much of the time that was spent here was to further yourself on the path to your most ultimate goal. You will get there, just keep on.

“War Of My Life” – John Mayer

If fear hasn’t killed me yet, then nothing will… I’m in the war of my life/At the core of my life, I’ve got no choice but to fight til it’s done.

Looking ahead, all of the moments and experiences you’ve had thus far have brought you to this moment. What some would call the begin-ning of your life, will sometimes be a fight, will sometimes be a test, but will never be more than you can handle.

“So Ambitious” – Jay-Z & Pharrell

The world don’t like us, is that not clear?/Alright but I’m different, I can’t base what I’m gon be off of what everybody isn’t.

Packed with high horns and happy chords, Jay-Z and Pharrell col-laborated to assess their ambition, and its origins. Much of which can be accredited to them, and more important, to their continual, unde-niable strive to be themselves and nothing else. “The motivation for me, is them telling me what I could not be. If you believe it, then you can conceive it.”

“Peer Pressure” – Jon Brion

A piece that was scored for the film Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind, this song embodies warmth, transition, reflection, and love without any words needed. Lead by the piano, which is soon followed by an arrangement of strings and woodwinds, one can imagine this song being played as seniors walk across the stage. (Sidenote: You should watch the movie if you haven’t already.)

“Montezuma” – Fleet Foxes

Oh man what I used to be, oh man oh my oh me.

This lyric is applicable because it spurs reflection on the past and is a relatable perspective for anyone who has gone through the ups and downs of Howard University. The college experience is one that will make something out of you. It will test you inside and outside of the classroom, it will inspire you to engage in new activities, and it will serve as a catalyst for personal growth. Compare the person you were as a freshman to the person you are now, and see how much of everything it has taken to get you to this point.

“We Made It” – Drake & Soulja Boy

We made it!The anthem of this past year. Pretty self-explanatory, no?

“Butterfly” – Bilal & Robert Glasper

Butterfly, the struggle makes you beautiful/The struggle makes you fly/Spread your wings and be new again.

Your time here is done! Go on to greatness, to glory.

Photo via flickr.com, ZagatBuzz

Photo via flickr.com, Isaac Solomon

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The Howard University Alumni Association

congratulates and wishes the Class of 2014 a prosperous and fulfilling career.

May 9, 2014 Howard University All Classes Reunion and Class of 2014 Graduation

Alumni Awards at the Blackburn Center Gallery Lounge, 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Recognizing outstanding alumni and constituent units & membership drive

July 19, 2014 Fundraiser at the Seafarers Yacht Club in Annapolis, MD

August 5 – 10, 2014 & August 21 - 24, 2014 Bison on the Vineyard

Fundraiser, networking, professional development, fun with alumni, family and friends, & membership drive.

October 2014 Howard University Homecoming Half-Time Presentation, & Membership Drive

Blue Carpet Reception Alumni Worship Service at Rankin Chapel

Visit www.thehuaa.org, email info@thehuaa.org, or call (202) 681-8670 for more information.

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Running towards graduation?Howard University wants to help you cross the line.

TUITION REMISSION BENEFITS

Download the new application

and review the full policy at

www.hr.howard .edu /BPA/ remiss ion .h tm

ApplicAtion DeADlines

Semester Due DateFall 2014 May 16, 2014Spring 2015 Nov. 24, 2014Summer I 2015 May 1, 2015Summer II 2015 May 1, 2015

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I came from the other side of the world. It was a decent size school but it was all white. I played sports there but didn’t here. That was a big adjustment, it was a part of my identity in High School and then coming to Howard, I was a normal civilian and I didn’t know anybody when I came or anything about D.C.. So I learned I can put myself into a different environments. Howard prepared me for the real world, I learned don’t be afraid of new experiences. When you are in new environment you have two choices, you can either hang back and hesitate or you can get involved and jump in head first. Chose wisely for every situation.

Courtney DavisContributing Writer

Photos courtesy of Courtney Davis

Seniors Speak Out

Well, freshman year was poppin, drank too much. Sophomore year you kind of get to know yourself a little more and your class a little more, at least for me, I was late learning about my class. By junior year, it’s wonderful, you have great experi-ences. People don’t realize a lot of schools don’t have what Howard has like the events and parties. Made some of my best friends here. As far as academics go, finesse. The thing I didn’t like about Howard is that it gives you a false reality. People come here and they compete with the other Black girls here, but they don’t realize it’s not about that. It’s about unity. You should be learning how to reach out to these people and build with them because you’re going to be competing with white people. I love what it started as, it’s history, but the legacy won’t continue with the lack of integrity people have now.

My experience here, I would say was eye-opening and educational, to a certain extent. I feel like sometimes, some classes didn’t have all the materials so you just couldn’t get everything out of that class. So funding for materials was kind of an issue, but for everything else I was very content with my experience.

My experience at Howard has been a struggle but I’m really proud of myself for going through it. When I got here, I thought it was going to be all smooth sailing but it hasn’t been that, but it has helped me grow as a person. I’ve had so many great experiences just from being a Howard student that I couldn’t imagine my undergrad experience anywhere else.

My experience was cool. I came here got a good experience for freshman and sophomore year. These last 4-5 years have been a good time. One thing Howard did teach us is that we’re black and the world isn’t easy for us. But I don’t think we should’ve had to experience that in college. We pay the same amount other schools pay so we should have some of the same facilities. I do see them building now, but I’ve been here for 5 years and they are just getting to it now. Now that Frederick is in office I noticed the school is getting better. Maybe I’ll let my kids come to school here, but I would just have to see what it’s like then.

Joshua BurkholderPhoenix, Arizona

DeAris GreenidgeBoston, Massachusetts

Taliah BroyardDecatur, Georgia

Robert MooreGaithersburg, Maryland

Mariah DupontPhiladelphia, Pennsylvania

If I had to evaluate Howard I would say, your experience could be a 10 if you make it a 10. I could have done a little bit more. I encourage other people to do more, meet a lot of people, experiment, you know, have fun. Figure out who you are, what you like and what you don’t like. I had a lot of fun. I learned a lot, I benefited a lot. I would recommend Howard to someone else but I would just say, be who you are and don’t try to be something you’re not.

Shayla MulzacBrooklyn, New York

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The Evolution of Howard Style

NOW AS SENIORS:

ÜćŧĆ ýĈĆć ĆĂĀøćûüāú ôõĂĈć ÛĂĊôą÷ ćûôć ĆøøĀĆ ćĂ üāűĈøāöø ôā÷ öûôāúø ĈĆ ôÿÿ üā ô ĊôČÁ ÔĆ ÛĂĊôą÷ ĆćĈ÷øāćĆ ĀôćąüöĈÿôćø üāćĂ ćûøüą ĆøāüĂą Čøôą¿ ćûøČ ÿĂĂþ õôöþ Ăā ćûø ĆćČÿø ćûôć ćûøČ ôąąüĉø÷ ćĂ àøööô Ċüćû ôā÷ üćŧĆ ĆüúāüŰöôāć öûôāúøÁ

THEN AS FRESHMEN:

Name: Amandla BarakaMajor: Public RelationsMinor: Graphic DesignHometown: Montclair, NJ by way of Newark, NJ

I grew up here at Howard. Everything about this school has shaped me into the person that I will be for the rest of my life, starting with the way that I dress. My junior year in high school is when my style started to change. That was when we got an Urban Outfitters in Montclair (If you’re from that area you know what I mean). I went from Abercrombie ripped jeans to black skinnies. When I got to Howard I was still in be-tween that Abercrombie zombie stage and my newly reformed vintage style. These days, I wouldn’t be able to describe my style to you. I will say that since I’ve been here, I wear a whole lot less jewelry. I love minimalism, but I also love boisterous patterns. I’m a mix of both, maybe.

Name: Jayde StuckeyMajor: Criminal JusticeHometown: Dallas, Texas

When I came to Howard my head was shaved, I wore sneak-ers everyday, and 50% of my closet was from the thrift store. I had a sense of style, but knew nothing about fashion. These days, I try to keep it clean and simple. Howard has taught me that you don’t have to be the biggest “sneakerhead” or don colored hair to stand out. Going to a fashionable school and dealing with drastic weather changes has helped me to become more diverse. Unlike when I first arrive at Howard, I can now go from tomboy to business casual day to day. I think going to a school like this forces students to be individu-als, while still presenting themselves in a positive light. You may have just went through the entire “Howard Runaround,” but you’re going to look good while at.

Name: Deron Smith Major: Fashion MerchandisingHometown: Raleigh, North Carolina

I’ve been through many evolutions of styles throughout my Howard experience. Coming in freshman year I was in my “Kanye” phase where I wore nothing but denim jackets, Yeezys and LV. I was all about mainstream brands. A friend introduced me to the world of thrifting and it turned out i had the ability to turn an inexpensive piece of clothing into something valuable. This is when I noticed I had my own individual style. I consider myself to be a chameleon; open and fearless to try something original. I think now I’ve found my own identity.

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THE HILLTOP | SATURDAY, MAY 10, 2014

Senior Diaries: A Look Back at Four Years Name: Jaslyn Brown Major: HistoryHometown: Chicago, Illinois

It’s hard to explain the Howard experience without quoting one of its greatest alumni. Stokely Carmichael, later known as Kwame Ture once said, “Howard is everything Black and its opposite.” And I couldn’t agree more. I came to Howard to gain knowledge about my culture and history, to meet friends who would last a lifetime, to make unforgettable memories, and most importantly, to earn a degree. Though I accomplished everything I set out for, I’ve also been surprised at everything else Howard has given me along the way. Howard University is sacred ground for Black thought and achievement. One of the best decisions I’ve ever made was deciding to be a history major while at Howard. That small, yet prestigious department has produced some of the world’s best minds and has shaped my thinking as well. I’ve learned more in my four years here about myself and my people than I had in the previous 18 years before Howard became apart of my life, and for that, I am forever grateful. “They” say to surround yourself with like-minded people and to keep your circle small. Howard taught me that those “rules” are boring. I’ve learned so much and made so many great memories from and with those that are completely different than me. I’ve become more appreciative of the diversity among our people, and more understanding of the different walks of life and backgrounds from which our people come. The friends I’ve made at Howard have taught me that it is okay to live in my truth and to work in my passion, and for that, I am forever grateful. Howard University has given me everything I expected and nothing I antici-pated all in the same four years. I’ve gained that knowledge, I’ve met those friends, I’ve made those memories, and best of all, I’ve earned that degree. Howard will always remain at the center of my heart and in the front of my mind, and for that, I am forever grateful. Cheers to being a Bison today and forever more.

Name: Ayofemi DavisMajor: EnglishHometown: New Orleans, Louisiana

I think it’s safe to say that we all go crazy after we come to Howard. I didn’t know what was going on with me at the time, but in retrospect I realize that most people have a hard time letting go of who we’ve been when we’re transitioning to who we’re supposed to be. I have that inherent attitude as a girl from New Orleans. People don’t understand me when I’m speaking, and I’m always annoyed by that. I’m Isoke’s little sister. I’m quiet and really uncomfortable around people I don’t know and that will never change. But it did. People at home say you’ve changed but isn’t that the point? I just saw a picture on Instagram of the old one hundred dollar bill next to the new one. The caption? You can still change it up and keep it 100. How clever. Maybe I needed to see that as I approach the week before I’m officially a graduate of Howard University. I ask myself…how you gonna act? Shouldn’t you be exactly who you want to be? Shouldn’t you be the change in your wardrobe you want to see? You’ve always relied on “bite,” but you’re an English major and frankly too old...it’s time to lead with your bark. Forget fear, you’ve braved Ledroit park after dark before “cultural” changes to the neighborhood. Howard drove me crazy because my dear refused to let up when I was just too tired for 8 a.m. classes and A-building hazes. I just don’t feel like…what? Being great? My dear Howard said “get over yourself ”…you’ve come, you’ve seen…will you conquer? Howard students, the future is yours for the taking and Howard will pre-pare you for it all. Trust yourself and trust your experience.

Name: Shaquille BrewsterMajor: Broadcast JournalismHometown: Stratford, Connecticut

I think it’s safe to say that we all go crazy after we come to Howard. I didn’t know what was going on with me at the time, but in retrospect I realize that most people have a hard time letting go of who we’ve been when we’re transitioning to who we’re supposed to be. I have that inherent attitude as a girl from New Orleans. People don’t understand me when I’m speaking, and I’m always annoyed by that. I’m Isoke’s little sister. I’m quiet and really uncomfortable around people I don’t know and that will never change. But it did. People at home say you’ve changed but isn’t that the point? I just saw a picture on Instagram of the old one hundred dollar bill next to the new one. The caption? You can still change it up and keep it 100. How clever. Maybe I needed to see that as I approach the week before I’m officially a graduate of Howard University. I ask myself…how you gonna act? Shouldn’t you be exactly who you want to be? Shouldn’t you be the change in your wardrobe you want to see? You’ve always relied on “bite,” but you’re an English major and frankly too old...it’s time to lead with your bark. Forget fear, you’ve braved Ledroit park after dark before “cultural” changes to the neighborhood. Howard drove me crazy because my dear refused to let up when I was just too tired for 8 a.m. classes and A-building hazes. I just don’t feel like…what? Being great? My dear Howard said “get over yourself ”…you’ve come, you’ve seen…will you conquer? Howard students, the future is yours for the taking and Howard will pre-pare you for it all. Trust yourself and trust your experience.

THE HILLTOP 11

THE HILLTOP | SATURDAY, MAY 10, 2014

The Hilltop Congratulates Its Seniors!

Thank you for all of the hard work and long hours that you have put into this publication both this year and throughout your respective Howard careers. We wish you the utmost success in your future endeavors!

Rachel Cumberbatch, Photo Editor Keneisha Deas, Metro Editor Emmy Victor, Campus Editor

THE HILLTOP

THE HILLTOP | SATURDAY, MAY 10, 2014

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