HC: Why did you choose Salisbury?
BP: I wanted to go to an institution that was far enough from home for me to be independent but still close enough to home so that I wouldn’t feel homesick.
HC: When you first came to Salisbury what was you impression?
BP: I thought that Salisbury had a lot of good opportunities but I feel like it’s like that with all colleges, you know. I really liked the structure of the campus and was happy that I had a good roommate. I came here without having any friends so I was glad there was at least someone here to make me feel welcomed.
HC: Was there anything that you knew you didn’t like about Salisbury after your first year?
BP: After my first year, I really noticed how small the black population was here which made me feel uncomfortable. Other than that I’d have to say the weather. I’m not used to such frequent rain here and for Salisbury specifically it pours so that’s something I really hate about the University’s location.
HC: Was there ever a time where you wanted to transfer? If so, why didn’t you?
BP: No, I never hated it here. Tuition is reasonable compared to most colleges and I have already made Salisbury my home away from home.
HC: Over the years, what have you been involved with on campus?
BP: Although I wasn’t active my first year, I got a job with SU Police Traffic Patrol. Not until my junior year did I become a member of NAACP, BSU and earn the title as Miss NCNW.
HC: How does it feel to know that you are about to graduate?
BP: Honestly, It’s a bittersweet feeling. It’s great to see all my work pay off and come to fruition. However, now this place has become a part of my daily routine. I eat with certain people every day and have learned to live my life here. By the time I figured out how to manage my time, it is time to leave. Even when I am home, sometimes I miss this place so it’s going to be hard to leave behind.
HC: Do you feel that Salisbury has prepared you for life after college?
BP: In some ways yes and in others no. I feel like being in school for 4 years really doesn’t set you up financially for the real world. I felt like I couldn’t make enough money for me to be financially stable because I prioritized my academics.
HC: What are your plans after graduation?
BP: I’m going to take a year off to work and then will hopefully be accepted into graduate school to get a Master’s degree in art therapy and counseling.
HC: What are you most thankful for here at Salisbury?
BP: The opportunity to gain independence. All the lessons I’ve learned here were very helpful in regards to life experiences. The things that I learned as far as academics were important as well but I feel like the life lessons are what will get me through life after college.
HC: If there was one piece of advice that you would give to an incoming freshman at Salisbury, what would it be?
BP: Remember why you came here, know your worth, and find a balance between your social and academic life.