Donald Jackson , Miles College- c/o 2012, Political Science
Name : Donald Jackson
HBCU : Miles College
Graduation Year : 2012
Major : Political Science
Minor : History & Philosophy
Email : donaldjackson311@outlook.com
Where are you from? Who introduced you to HBCUs?*
I'm from Miami, FL, I was introduced to HBCUs originally through TV. The Cosby show was the first time that I saw what an HBCU was. Other shows and movies that introduced me to HBCU was "Martin", "A Different World", and "School Daze".
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Why did you choose an HBCU over a pwi?*
Prior to coming to my HBCU, I originally attended a PWI in North Carolina, "Methodist University" on an academic scholarship to offset expenses playing football. After my first semester, I didn't feel like I was supposed to be there, as if I were out of place.
When I decided to transfer, I sent my football film to various schools, primarily in Florida,but there was this coach who at this time was at Florida International University (FIU) by the name of Larry Williams who saw my football film and asked me what did I think about playing for Miles College in Alabama.
Well the rest is history, I went to Miles College without visiting the campus because the coach sold me on the aspect of a family environment and that he'd be coaching there as well.
Miles College Track and field
What is the story of your "experience" at Your HBCU given its heralded status as a stellar and prestigious institution?*
My experience at Miles College was unbelievable. I believe it molded and prepared me for the road I'm traveling now.
Miles College THRUSTED me into the spotlight and made me see the star potential within myself, my intelligence and my talents. My experience taught me that I can achieve anything and that I'm second to no one... I blaze my own trail while traveling the trail that's blazed.
From being involved in football and track & field, to traveling to Europe with the International Studies program, to representing several organizations (NAACP, Student Government, UNCF Pre-Alumni Council), as well as the institution to pledging the best Fraternity on the planet, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
I truly can say that I took advantage of every single opportunity my institution provided me. Miles prepared me for the professional world. As an Political Science major, I remember attending several interviews for internships and employers being ‘surprised and amazed that I graduated from Miles.’ I believe that my three (3) undergraduate years as well experiences, academically, socially, and athletically granted me a very firm foundation and easy transition into the professional realm.
"First time" experiences at your HBCU?*
I was amazed when I first stepped foot on campus, being that I never took a visit to actually get a feel for it, then to see so many intelligent black people in one specific place at one time on the campus of Miles College! I was literally in complete awe and couldn't wait to introduce myself as well as meet the many new faces that resembled that of mine!
My first time seeing undergraduate Greek life was my first day on campus. I was approached by a few guys from Kappa Alpha Psi asking if I was interested in learning about their organization because they felt I would make a great addition. To be completely honest, I was a tad bit interested in what they had to say and offer, but I respectfully declined the opportunity to further my lack of knowledge on Greek organizations. A year later Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. became the light that I was seeking.
Who are the professors that have impacted your life in and out of the classroom? How did they do that?*
Mrs. Merika Coleman has had a huge impact and influence on my life and decision to get into politics.
She has been a mentor since my first day in her class until my last day at Miles. We’ve had meaningful conversations regarding career and life and she inspired me. She is the reason why I believe I graduated and followed through with pursuing my degree, because in my first year at Miles, I suffered a torn ACL and couldn't play football for the season. I contemplate dropping out, but she reminded me as to why I was originally in college. I am forever grateful to her for her role in shaping me to be the bold professional that I am today.
What sports do/did you play at your HBCU? What positions?
I played football and ran Track. My position(s) on the football field were Free Safety and Cornerback. In track and field, I competed in the 100m, 200m, 400m and 800m events.
What sports and/or extra curricular activities did you do in High School? And why?
In high school I competed in various sports all of which included: football, track and field, soccer and baseball.
I played all of these sports because I was use to playing multiple sports growing up and just continued the path I set.
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Miles College
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Students: 1,823
- Athletics: Miles College competes in the NCAA Division II's Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC). Miles College offers men's and women's sports that include: basketball, football, volleyball, track, baseball, softball, cross country, and golf.
- Notable Alumni: Richard Arrington Jr. - First African-American Mayor of the City of Birmingham** U. W. Clemon - First African-American federal judge in the State of Alabama** Jesse Lewis - Founder of the Birmingham Times** Fred Horn - Politician, Former Alabama House of Representatives** Juandalynn Givan - Politician, Alabama House of Representatives** Bennett M. Stewart - Former Democratic U.S. Representative from Illinois** Cleopatra Tucker - Politician, who has served in the New Jersey General Assembly since 2008**
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