Chelsea S. Jackson, Virginia State University- c/o 2014, Management Information Systems

Where are you from? Who introduced you to HBCUs?*

No answer provided.

Why did you choose an HBCU over a pwi?*

It was around application filling time for me in 2010, I had sent off my last app and transcript to one VSU. Though at the time, VSU wasn’t my first choice. As the weeks went by, I received letters from various schools, both good and bad. And as spring approached I had received all but one, a letter from VSU.

Over spring break I went to visit my grandmother, she told me about the importance of an education and where you go is what you make of it. My mother also gave a recount of her time at VSU and how wonderful it was. A few days later, I received a large envelope in the mail. I had been accepted to the nation’s first public HBCU and couldn’t have been more proud to attend.

What is the story of your "experience" at Your HBCU given its heralded status as a stellar and prestigious institution?*

My experience has been one of self-discovery, I have realized my true potential in and outside of the classroom. I’ve become a part of a family that constantly challenges me to be my best and to “dream, explore and succeed” in all that I do.

"First time" experiences at your HBCU?*

Well let’s see.

First time eating ramen noodles

First game of ‘manhunt’

First singing gig by myself

First dropped class

First TRUE best friend

First 20+ page paper

First all-nighter

First time seeing a rat.

First Greek hosted party

First Clubbing experience away from home

First UCM service

First Time doing a major Web design Project.

Who are the professors that have impacted your life in and out of the classroom? How did they do that?*

My composition I professor, Lillie Bailey, taught me the importance in putting a little bit of yourself into your writing, that way it can never be plagiarized. She also gave me some tips on daily living as a black woman in today’s society. Her advice and her kindness that semester sticks with me. I make sure to swing by her office occasionally just to say hello and thank you for all she’s given of herself to my fellow Trojans.

Best restaurants on/near campus? Best dishes?

Most of the restaurants near the mall are pretty good. However Mac’s Grill is the best BBQ joint and it’s a 5 min walk from campus. My favorite dishes are the ribs and fried fish ‘Trojan combos’. They hit the spot on a college students’ budget

College crush?

I had a crush on this guy named Elliot *****, We became best friends and now he’s like a brother to me. But now I’m focusing on my education. If someone catches my eye, I’ll be sure to let you know.

Ghost stories involving buildings or spots on campus?

It is said that a part of our campus enclosed the Underground Railroad and that slaves were hung from trees in front of a few buildings. They’re also myths about the painted Trojan heads on campus and the school’s fountain.

What is your major? and Why did you choose it?

My Major is Management Information Systems with a Minor in Information Security and Forensics. I remember watching the movie ‘Catch Me If you Can’ and wonder how he could decipher fraudulent checks so well. From then on I wanted to use my Computer skills to help with Information Security.

What to date has been your proudest moment @ Your HBCU?

My Proudest Moment was becoming a member of the Betterment of Brothers and Sisters, Inc. It’s a social organization aimed at helping freshman and new students adjust to the university environment as well as give back to the Tri-cities area through community service.

This group of people helped me feel right at home from the first day on campus until now. I was assigned a mentor from that organization that kept me up to date on all the happenings on campus and also helped me find rides to places like Wal-Mart and target to get essentials for my dorm.

Where are the spots to go to if you wanted to cuddle with your boy or girlfriend?

Well as a freshman, we aren’t allowed co-ed visitation in our rooms. Therefore, the best spots are the main lobby couches in residence halls, just to watch episodes of “The Game” or the benches in the courtyard in front of Virginia Hall for some alone time. The scenery is astounding as you look down on the Appomattox and Old Towne Petersburg.

What are the chants heard most often at the sporting events?

Most of them are songs, but my faves are ‘V-S-U, I love it, I love it, I love it!’ and “I’m so glad I go to VSU[3x]…Singing glory hallelujah, WHOO!, I’m so glad”

How are you positively active on campus? (e.g. clubs, SGA, etc.)

I’m a member of Black Data Processing Associates

The Betterment of Brothers and Sisters, Inc.

The Virginia State University Gospel Choral

VSU Student Leaders

I also volunteer and help with various other events and organizations like United Campus Ministries, SGA and The Department of Student Activities

Where is the “yard” located?

Pretty much anywhere on campus. The main attractions are usually University Avenue and the backyard and patio of Foster Hall.

What and where are the historical places on campus?

The entire campus has history, VSU is the Nation’s First Public HBCU. However, Virginia Hall was the first and only building on campus when VSU was founded in 1882 however it was burned down and rebuilt. Also the oldest building on campus is our, Alumni house, Storum Hall.

What to date has been your saddest moment at your HBCU?

I was saddened when a friend of mine had to leave campus for a while to go back home out of state. Her mother was very ill and she took some time off to care for her. Haven’t seen her a lot since, but her family is in my thoughts and prayers.

How did you overcome your nervousness about going to college?

I remembered that God is with me wherever I go, and that my home is never too far away that I can’t come back.

Well freshmen aren’t allowed to pledge Greek Organizations. I have my eye on one in particular. Which one? Let’s just say, I’ve done my research and I would be honored to follow in my mother’s footsteps. =D