Built by A&T, Prepared for the World

My name is Sanii Nash-Fuell, and I am a proud student of North Carolina A&T State University, graduating in 2026 with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology.

My journey to an HBCU was very intentional. Before A&T, I spent time in predominantly white institutions, where I often felt a disconnect in how conversations about social and political issues impacting my community were handled. Those experiences made me reflect deeply on the kind of environment I needed to truly grow. I knew I wanted to be somewhere that not only challenged me academically, but also affirmed who I am.

As someone pursuing a career in physical therapy, a field where diversity is limited, I understood the importance of being grounded in my identity before stepping into that space. Attending an HBCU gave me exactly that. It gave me confidence, clarity, and a community that poured into me in ways I didn’t even realize I needed.

During my time at A&T, I stayed actively involved across campus. I was a member of organizations like the NAACP, the National Council of Negro Women, VA Aggies, Pulse72 Sports Science Club, and the MIAL Foundation. I also served as a Healthy Brother Healthy Sister Peer Facilitator at the university health center, where I helped lead health education initiatives focused on STI and STD awareness and prevention. Each of these experiences helped shape my leadership, strengthened my communication skills, and deepened my commitment to service.

One of the most meaningful parts of my journey has been becoming a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, initiated through the Alpha Mu Chapter in Spring 2025. That experience has given me a deeper sense of sisterhood, purpose, and responsibility to serve my community.

“A&T gave me the space to grow into who I’m meant to be.”

Some of my favorite memories at A&T come from the culture and community that exists on campus. From Wellness Days to GHOE, to even the simple moments of walking across campus and seeing people who look like me thriving, it always felt like home. There’s something powerful about being in a space where Black excellence is the norm.

HBCUs are more than just institutions, they are a legacy. They were created for us during a time when we were denied access to education, and that purpose still matters today. At an HBCU, you are not just earning a degree, you are being developed, affirmed, and prepared to walk into any room with confidence and purpose.

My experience at A&T prepared me for the real world by helping me grow both professionally and personally. It taught me how to lead, how to advocate for myself, and how to navigate spaces where I may be underrepresented, all while staying true to who I am.

If I could give advice to future students, I would say come prepared, not just academically, but mentally. Understand the history, embrace the culture, and take full advantage of every opportunity. Get involved, build relationships, and allow yourself to grow. An HBCU will shape you into the best version of yourself if you let it.

For me, choosing North Carolina A&T wasn’t just about where I would go to school. It was about choosing a place that would help me become who I’m meant to be.