I Am a Priority, Not a Minority
My name is Kaylynn Bromell, and I am a proud student at Morgan State University, graduating Fall 2025. Choosing to attend an HBCU was never a question for me. I knew it was the place where I would feel most at home, fully comfortable in my identity. My grandparents met at Morgan, and my mother also attended and graduated from here. While I wanted to honor their legacy, I was equally determined to create my own.
At Morgan, I found my voice in ways I never imagined. As a poet, I had the opportunity to perform at major campus events like stroll competitions and the Mister and Miss Morgan State University Pageant. I also contributed my writing to promotional videos in partnership with the Office of Public Relations. Through my words, I was able to connect with people, inspire them, and leave a lasting impact on my campus.
My journey was also defined by leadership and service. I became the first Miss of SMOOTH Inc., an organization focused on uplifting men through hard work and resilience. Being the first woman in that space came with its challenges, but it also came with purpose. During my reign, I created events centered around professionalism and mental health, ensuring that meaningful conversations were being had. I was supported by an Executive Board that made sure I felt welcomed and valued every step of the way.
Outside of campus, I remained committed to giving back. I coach a step team called E.L.I.T.E. in Montgomery County, mentoring young women in the same community I grew up in. That experience reminds me that leadership doesn’t stop at titles, it’s about impact, consistency, and pouring into others.
“I am a priority, not a minority.”
Some of my favorite moments at Morgan were the simplest ones. Attending organization fairs, performing for my campus, and spending time with my brothers are memories I will always cherish. What meant the most to me were the personal interactions, when someone would come up to me after a performance or event and share how it impacted them. Those moments reminded me that I was walking in purpose.
HBCUs are special because they create a space where you are seen, valued, and celebrated. I’ve always lived by a quote I created in high school: “I am a priority, not a minority.” That is exactly what an HBCU represents. You are not reduced to a number or statistic. Instead, you are connected to a community that embraces every part of who you are. No matter your interests, your passions, or your goals, there is a place for you.
My experience at Morgan State University taught me how to advocate for myself in every aspect of life, professionally, mentally, spiritually, and personally. That confidence is something I will carry with me forever.
To students preparing for this journey, my advice is simple: stay true to yourself. Lean on your resources, whether that’s family, mentors, or even creators online who have been through it. Have a strong sense of who you are and what you stand for. When you do that, everything else will fall into place.
Morgan State University gave me more than an education. It gave me a voice, a purpose, and the confidence to walk boldly in both.
