According to the Common App, from 2018 to 2021, applications to H.B.C.U.’s increased by 30%. To understand the surge in applications, it’s imperative to understand the importance of H.B.C.U.’s for black students. These schools originally arose in the antebellum period when blacks could not receive equal education due to racial discrimination, leading to a demand for black schools. Although slavery and Jim Crow no longer have the power they once obtained, the lingering effects create an environment where H.B.C.U.’s hold an adapted purpose. Not only are they a safe haven for black students, but these environments surround students with peers that share similar experiences, and an education that accurately reflects black and African history. Coming from a predominately white institution, coming to Howard University was a refreshing transition that I did not expect to enjoy as much as I did. In my high school, racism was inevitable if you were a person of color. Physical race wars, microaggressions, and racist teachers are factors that made up Arlington High School. My friends and I tried to combat some of the racism by organizing a black empowerment club, which eventually turned into an equity team because it was deemed “too radical.” However, coming to college, all of these experiences became an experience of the past. Not only this, but my peers share similar high school experiences at public white institutions. Black students across America deserve an opportunity to relieve themselves from unjust education systems and learn with kids and teachers that look like themselves. Never have I ever learned about my people's history in-depth like I do at an H.B.C.U. Not only do they avoid teaching from the white man’s perspective, but there is an emphasis on historical black figures that helped build America to what it is today. This gives students an honest view of American history, and it also is encouraging to see a historical black figure achieve success in an environment where he was not supposed to. Going to an H.B.C.U. gives young adults a sense of what it really means to be black. At Howard, there is a sense of unity and support across the campus to achieve personally, and for the entire black community. You could not experience this outside an H.B.C.U. Everyone acknowledges that we have to work harder as black people to reach the same level of success as white men. The sense of pride we have in our education and resilience as a community is unmatched. Seeing success come from these schools every year builds morale for H.B.C.U.’s. Kamala Harris is a great example of excellence deriving from these schools. Black students everywhere are seeing the alumni that H.B.C.U.’s produce. Through social media, these campuses are gaining popularity by displaying their large donations, campus spirit, and their relevance, and pop culture. Historically, these schools produce fine scholars who represent the black community greatly, giving a spotlight on the importance of these institutions. At this point in my educational career, my goals have adapted to a more selfless state. I plan to have a future with diverse opportunities that allow me to explore the world and help people along the way. Coming out of college, I will pursue a career in asset management, financing for large companies, and learning the machines inside companies that allow them to grow. Further in the future, I anticipate starting my affordable housing program. Because I love architecture, I will use this to explore ways to fund my organization that would help those in less fortunate communities. Morally, it is my responsibility to use the tools that I have to help others and give back to communities. Currently, I am working towards these goals persistently. In my previous semester at Howard University, I achieved a 4.0, and this summer has been far from a break. I’ve picked up two summer classes, and two different jobs. At this rate, the discipline I am receiving will take me far, and I am starting to see the results. Additionally, I have picked up an insurance agent position at Aflac, selling supplemental insurance. This step into the business world will be tremendous in studying my surroundings and creating experiences that will help me prosper.