Legacy, Culture, and Growth at Morgan State University

Ferdinand Nyivih | Morgan State University | Sports Administration | Fall 2025 Graduate

My HBCU journey is one shaped by legacy, culture, and growth.

I chose to attend an HBCU largely because of the people around me. A close friend encouraged me to consider it, and once I reflected on my family history, especially knowing my father was a proud Morgan State University alumnus, it felt like everything aligned perfectly. Morgan wasn’t just an option; it felt like destiny.

At Morgan State, I found myself in an environment that pushed me to grow both academically and personally.

I was a four-year member of the Morgan State football team, an experience that taught me discipline, accountability, and resilience. Being a student-athlete required balance, managing academics, athletics, and personal development but it ultimately helped shape me into the man I am today. The lessons I learned on the field carried over into the classroom and into life beyond college.

“My HBCU experience showed me how our culture can impact the world and pushed me to become the best version of myself.”

Some of my favorite moments at my HBCU came from simply being immersed in the culture. Meeting people from different places, learning from diverse perspectives, and growing alongside my peers made my experience unforgettable. The classroom challenged me, the campus inspired me, and the overall environment helped me mature and gain a deeper understanding of who I am and who I want to become.

I pursued a degree in Sports Administration, a field that allowed me to combine my passion for sports with leadership, organization, and business. My HBCU experience didn’t just further my education, it pushed me to be the best version of myself. It showed me how our culture, when unified and empowered, can truly impact the world.

Outside of the classroom and athletics, I discovered another passion that became central to my journey: barbering. What began as a creative outlet during my college years grew into a powerful way for me to connect, serve, and build community. Through every cut, I found myself engaging in meaningful conversations, mentorship, and relationship-building with fellow students and members of the Baltimore community. Barbering taught me the importance of listening, uplifting others, and creating spaces where people feel confident and seen. It allowed me to blend my personal purpose with my HBCU experience and shaped me into a leader who understands the power of service, culture, and connection, both on campus and beyond it.

Preparing for college was also key to my success. In high school, I was part of AVID, a college-readiness program that helped prepare me academically and mentally for higher education. I also made it a priority to surround myself with mentors, people who had already experienced college and could guide me through the process. That support system made a real difference and is something I strongly encourage prospective HBCU students to seek out.

I believe students should attend HBCUs because they play a vital role in uplifting the Black community and showcasing Black excellence. HBCUs create spaces where students are encouraged to lead, to serve, and to understand the power of their collective impact.

As a Fall 2025 graduate, I leave Morgan State University with knowledge, confidence, and a strong sense of purpose. My HBCU journey helped shape my identity, strengthen my character, and prepare me for what’s next.

My story is proof that an HBCU experience isn’t just about earning a degree; it’s about growing into your potential and understanding your power. #HBCUPride!

Follow Ferd at @sheloveferd!