I Belong Here: Jasmin Criss’ Cheyney Story

My name is Jasmin Criss, and I am a Business Administration major at Cheyney University, graduating in May 2026. I am honored to graduate as the salutatorian of my class, earning a 3.9 GPA.

I chose to attend an HBCU because I wanted to be in an environment that affirmed who I am while still challenging me to grow. I also come from a family with strong HBCU roots. My mother is a graduate of Howard University, so attending Cheyney felt like both continuing a legacy and creating my own path. As the nation’s first HBCU, Cheyney’s history and mission inspired me, but what truly drew me in was the way the university saw my potential early and invested in me. That belief made all the difference.

During my time at Cheyney, I stayed actively involved in both academics and professional development. I was a part of the Keystone Honors Program, served on the Academic Literacy Committee for Business, Education, and Professional Studies, and became a member of the Fine Arts Honor Society. I also gained real world experience through a Digital Marketing internship with Eagle Staffing in partnership with the Urban League of Greater Philadelphia. Each opportunity helped me grow not just as a student, but as a future professional.

“I chose an HBCU to be affirmed in who I am while being challenged to grow”

Some of my favorite moments at Cheyney were the ones that reminded me I truly belonged. Consistently making the Dean’s List and being challenged within the Honors Program pushed me to reach new levels. Being named salutatorian is one of the most meaningful accomplishments of my journey, but the everyday moments meant just as much. Late nights with my sister and best friend, campus events celebrating Black culture, and the encouragement I received during moments of self doubt all shaped me in ways I will carry for the rest of my life.

HBCUs offer more than an education. They offer affirmation, community, and confidence. At Cheyney, I was surrounded by Black excellence and supported by people who genuinely wanted to see me succeed. My professors were invested, my peers inspired me, and the environment constantly pushed me to rise to my full potential. I never had to question whether I belonged. I knew I did.

My HBCU experience prepared me for the real world by instilling confidence, resilience, and leadership. Cheyney challenged me academically while also teaching me how to advocate for myself and step into professional spaces even when I did not feel fully ready. Through internships, leadership roles, and mentorship, I learned how to navigate real world expectations while staying grounded in who I am. It prepared me not just to succeed, but to believe that I belong in any space I enter.

As I prepared for college, I focused on building discipline, staying organized, and surrounding myself with people who pushed me to aim higher. For future students, my advice is to come in confident, but also open. Take advantage of every opportunity, build relationships, and do not let self doubt hold you back. HBCUs are powerful, supportive spaces, but you have to show up, engage, and trust yourself.

Cheyney gave me the confidence to walk boldly in my purpose.