My TSU Experience Was a 10 Out of 10 #TennSt
I’m Savannah Naomi, a proud graduate of Tennessee State University, Class of 2026. When I made the decision to attend an HBCU, I knew I wanted to be surrounded by my people. I wanted to experience the culture, the energy, and what it truly feels like to be in a space where everyone looks like you and understands you. I also did not want to be too far from home, and TSU gave me the perfect balance of both.
From the moment I stepped on campus, I knew I made the right choice. There is something special about being in an environment where you feel seen and supported. It allowed me to grow into myself while also building lifelong connections with people who genuinely want to see you win.
I never imagined that I’d lose my best friend in college… we started this journey together, and now on graduation day I’ll be tossing my cap and sending kisses to the sky just for you. May 16th, 2024 changed my life forever. All I do is reminisce, look at old photos, and wish that I could hear from you one last time. As long as I am alive, the world will forever know your name. Today is your birthday, and I miss you more than anything in this world. Happy Birthday to my best friend, I would do anything in this world to bring you back. I would choose you again in every life time. I love you forever & always. 4L&AFTER ♾️ LONGLIVETHEBIGGEST💔
One of the most impactful parts of my experience was working with the TSU football team. From 2023 to 2026, I served as a recruiting and football operations assistant. That role challenged me in ways I did not expect. It placed me in real situations where I had to think quickly, stay organized, and handle responsibilities that prepared me for life beyond college. Being part of that program gave me hands-on experience and showed me what it takes to operate in high-level environments.
“My HBCU experience was a 10 out of 10 and I would choose it every time.”
Some of my favorite memories came from moments that truly define HBCU culture. Attending the Southern Heritage Classic, experiencing my first football game as football personnel, and being part of events like Hop Like a Que and Train Like an Alpha were unforgettable. I also had the opportunity to perform for the Miss TSU pageant, which was another moment that pushed me out of my comfort zone and allowed me to step into my confidence.
Majoring in Business Administration with a concentration in Hospitality and Tourism Management gave me a strong academic foundation, but my growth went far beyond the classroom. My HBCU experience prepared me for the real world by putting me in situations where I had to figure things out, even when I felt unsure. There were moments that felt overwhelming, but I always found a way through with faith, determination, and the support of TSU staff and mentors. Those experiences built my character and taught me resilience.
I always recommend HBCUs to students because the experience is unmatched. You get to fully embrace Black culture in a way that empowers you. There are also many scholarship opportunities that make it possible for students to attend and succeed. I personally received a partial academic scholarship, and it made a huge difference in my journey. Overall, my experience was a ten out of ten, and I encourage anyone considering stepping outside of a PWI to seriously look into an HBCU.
Before coming to college, I made sure I prepared myself financially by working the entire summer after graduating high school. I still enjoyed my time celebrating, but I understood the importance of having money saved when I got to campus. My parents also supported me, and before I left for school, my family threw me an open house where they showered me with gifts and money. That support carried me through college, and I would absolutely recommend it to anyone who has the opportunity. Many of those items stayed with me throughout my entire college journey.
My time at Tennessee State did more than earn me a degree. It shaped me, strengthened me, and prepared me for everything that comes next.
