More Than a Degree: Brotherhood, Band, and Becoming at WSSU
Christopher Wilson | Winston-Salem State University | Class of 2025 | B.S. in Marketing
I chose to attend an HBCU for one simple but powerful reason: I wanted to be somewhere I felt comfortable being myself. From the moment I stepped onto Winston-Salem State University’s campus, I knew I had found that space.
My time at WSSU became the foundation of who I am today; not just academically, but personally and creatively. I immersed myself fully into campus life, finding community, purpose, and pride through every opportunity I touched. I became a member of the Kappa Lambda Chapter of Kappa Kappa Psi National Honorary Band Fraternity, Inc., joined the Mighty Mu Epsilon Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., and served in multiple leadership roles on the NPHC Council. Music was always at the center of my experience. As a drummer and Head Drum Major for the Red Sea Sound Marching Band, I didn’t just perform, I represented a legacy.
Some of my most unforgettable HBCU moments came through the band. One highlight was traveling to Disney for an entire week with the Red Sea Sound, where we had the opportunity to be featured on First Take with Stephen A. Smith. Another was performing during NBA All-Star Week in Indianapolis, an experience that showed me just how far HBCU excellence can travel when preparation meets opportunity.
Academically, I pursued a Bachelor of Science in Marketing, graduating in Fall 2025. But the education I received extended far beyond the classroom. My HBCU experience taught me to go after what I want without fear, to stand confidently in my abilities, and to take pride in everything I do. It shaped my character and helped me discover my purpose, tools I’ll carry with me long after graduation.
I truly believe students should attend HBCUs because these institutions don’t just prepare you for a career; they help you find yourself. They build confidence, community, and character in a way that lasts a lifetime.
As for preparing for college, I’ll be honest…college isn’t something you can fully prepare for. You can buy dorm supplies and pack the essentials, but no one hands you a manual on how to navigate it all. The best advice I can give is this: be yourself, figure out what you’re good at, and learn how to turn that into something meaningful. College is about discovery, growth, and learning how to profit; not just financially, but personally from your gifts.
My HBCU didn’t just educate me. It empowered me. And that’s something I’ll always carry with pride.
Follow Christopher at chrris.holliwud
