AJC Sepia HBCU of the Week: Tradition drew Atlanta native to Dillard University

However, I desired something different and started considering going to school in New Orleans, a seven-hour drive deeper South.

I chose Dillard University, because it's an HBCU that's really big on tradition.

Moreover, I chose Dillard for the Colleges of Arts and Sciences that provided many opportunities for student research, lab work and internships.

Lastly, I wanted to take advantage of experiencing the culture of New Orleans.

My time at Dillard has been both life changing and overwhelming.

I have grown and adapted to the university and to the unique tempo that the people of New Orleans live their lives by.

Dillard has enhanced my education through the relationships that I’ve developed with its remarkable professors, who have transitioned in my mind from educators to mentors.

The level of support provided to their students goes beyond their office hours and extends into a genuine concern for the overall well-being of each one of us.

Being away from home, I’ve discovered that Dillard has become a part of my family.

Outside of the classroom, I'm vice president of the VisonQuest Liturgical Dance Ministry and president of the Alpha Beta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.

I have met and networked with so many people and have developed relationships that will impact my life well beyond graduation.

Dillard has so much to offer, and there aren't enough lines contained here to profess just how enriching my educational journey has been while attending this black college.

Dillard has provided for me and each of the students here, the tools and atmosphere that are needed to become a successful professional and an exceptional citizen.

With a Dillard degree in hand, I am coming back home to continue my studies at Life University in Marietta.

I’m thrilled to go back home and bring the lessons learned from Dillard University -- both in the classroom and about myself.

I will always love my HBCU, DU Bleu.