The Power of a Second Chance #VSU

Haydee Patterson | Virginia State University | Undergrad 2024, Grad 2025 | Mass Communications, Ed. Admin & Supervision

My name is Haydee Patterson, and I am a proud graduate of Virginia State University. I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications in May 2024 and I am currently completing my Master’s degree in Educational Administration and Supervision, with graduation set for Fall 2025. Choosing to attend an HBCU was intentional for me. I was drawn to the culture and the sense of family, but more importantly, Virginia State University gave me a second chance when no one else would. For that, I am forever grateful.

Virginia State challenged me to step outside of my comfort zone and placed me in rooms and spaces I never could have imagined myself in. During my undergraduate years, I became deeply involved in student leadership and campus life. I served on the Royal Court as Mister Sophomore and Mister 1882, held executive roles in Student Government Association as Vice President of Student Success and Engagement, and served as President of Urban Couture Models Entertainment, P.A.N.I.C. 2000, and Rainbow Souls. I was also a Charlie Hill Fellow, which is the highest level of student leadership at Virginia State University, and participated in organizations such as the African Students Association, Trojan Leadership Institute, the Honors Program, and served as an SOA Intern.

As a graduate student, my commitment to service and leadership continued. I served as a Graduate Assistant for the Royal Court, Admissions, and Urban Couture Models Entertainment, while also working as a campaign consultant. Each role allowed me to give back to the institution that poured so much into me.

One of my favorite moments during my HBCU experience was helping others win their campaigns and step into leadership roles. Supporting my peers as they pursued positions of influence allowed me to give back to the same community that believed in me. Being part of those campaigns meant using my voice, skills, and passion to uplift others, strengthen student leadership, and contribute to the growth of our campus. Those experiences ultimately inspired me to start my own nonprofit dedicated to guiding HBCU students into leadership, so they too can feel supported, confident, and prepared to create lasting impact.

Virginia State University gave me a second chance when no one else would

I believe students should attend HBCUs because they offer more than just an education. HBCUs provide a strong sense of family, culture, and belonging. They create environments where students are encouraged to discover their identity, use their voice, and build lifelong friendships that often become family. HBCUs intentionally pour into their students through mentorship, culturally affirming experiences, and leadership opportunities that prepare us for life beyond the classroom. At an HBCU, you are not just a number. You are seen, supported, and challenged to reach your full potential. An HBCU is more than a university. It is home.

My HBCU experience prepared me for the real world by strengthening my professional growth and resilience. Time after time, Virginia State pushed me to elevate myself and operate at a higher level than I thought possible. I learned that setbacks are not stopping points, but lessons, and when you get knocked down, you must find the strength within yourself to get back up. My HBCU instilled confidence, discipline, and accountability in me, equipping me with the mindset and skills needed to succeed beyond the classroom.

I prepared for college by learning from my sister, who also attended Virginia State University and was very active on campus. Watching her experience motivated me to take my preparation seriously, especially since college represented a second chance for me. Before attending, I did my research, applied for every scholarship I could find, and asked questions. I connected with faculty, staff, and alumni early on to better understand the campus and its opportunities. I encourage prospective students to do the same. Research the culture, take advantage of financial resources, and start building relationships early, because preparation and intentionality make all the difference in fully experiencing what an HBCU has to offer.

Virginia State University did more than educate me. It believed in me, challenged me, and helped shape me into the leader I am today.

Follow Haydee’s journey @thegrammyco