In this episode, I reflect on identity, education, and belonging through the lens of Africa, immigration, and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Inspired by viral moments of IShowSpeed traveling across Africa and the reactions they sparked, I take listeners back to my own journey — growing up in Zambia, coming to the United States in 2003, and navigating classrooms where accents, culture, and identity shaped my early experiences.

I share how my understanding of African American culture evolved, how divisions between Africans and Black Americans became visible during my early college years, and why learning the history of HBCUs changed my perspective on higher education in America. This episode breaks down what HBCUs are, why they were created, and why they continue to matter today — producing leaders, professionals, and change makers despite making up a small percentage of U.S. colleges.

I also explain why, despite earning my BSN at the University of Maryland, I intentionally chose to pursue graduate school at an HBCU, Coppin State University — a 103-year-old institution that is expanding access by recruiting students from states without HBCUs and offering in-state tuition opportunities. I discuss legacy, finding self, connection, affordability, and why HBCUs deserve serious consideration, especially for immigrants, mature students, and first-generation learners.

The episode closes with reflections on representation, belonging, and choosing education with intention. In the next episode, I’ll break down how students can fully take advantage of what they already pay for through tuition and fees — including writing centers, academic resources, and student support services that are often overlooked.