Newspapers / Black Ink (Black Student … / Aug. 14, 1991, edition 1 / Page 11
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s ''Every fall since I have been at this university the UNC black community has been humming quite a different tune; it’s called 'Where Did Last Year’s Freshmen Go?’” By Peter Henry Contributor As another academic year rolls around one can not help but be overwhelmed by the tradition and excitement that surrounds Ch^l Hill— the Old Well and Bell Tower stand as perennial symbols of the tradition that is UNC, while Franklin Street is filled with the clamor of hundreds of thrill- the intent is to warn this year’s freshmen about the potential pitfalls that await them at UNC and provide some helpful advice to help them avoid the academic woes which befell the Class of 1992. Contrary to popular opinion, the primary purpose in attending an institution of higher learning is the pursuit of academic excellence. Of course one ought Endsights seeking students. And of course, who can forget the roar of the Kenan crowd on Saturday afternoons, as they cheer on the Heels and sing nostalgic favorites such as “Hark the Sound.” Unfortunately,every fall since I have been at this university the UNC black community has been humming quite a different tune; it ’ s called “Where Did Last Year ’ s Freshmen Go?” Cynical, perhaps, but the fact remains that every year a large portion of the incoming black freshmen class drops out of UNC within one year. The overriding factor in the high attrition rate— poor grades. One particularly salient case is that of the Class of 1992. Proclaimed as one of the most promising black freshmen classes in UNC history, the Class of 1992 fell miserably short of the expectations of faculty, administrators and themselves. The purpose of bringing this matter to the fore is not to disparage those individuals who are members of this group. Rather, not live in academic seclusion, but scholastic performance should be a top priority. It is a lot easier to start off the semester with “your head in the books,” and gradually find your social niche than it is to party the first month or so and then try to play catch-up. Not only will you be behind in terms of course material but your study skills and discipline will also be sorely lacking. So how exactly does one achieve academic success without completely sacrificing their social life? The answer is two-fold. The crucial factor in this process is so simple that to state it seems almost vacuous. Nonetheless, it needs to be said. Go to classes! There will be numwous times when, perhaps aftar staying up lale talking to friends, playing cards or just hanging out, you will not feel like getting up to go to that 8:00 or 9:00 class. Get up! Like so many other things, missing classes is habit forming— once you miss one, it becomes commonplace. The easiest way to place yourself in an academic bind is to skip classes. While going to class and paying attention may have been sufficient effort for success in high school, such is not the case here at Chapel Hill. Study time is a must. Set aside a period each day, from 2:00-4:00 in the afternoon for example, where you do nothing but homework. That way you get your work out of the way early on and have the nights free to socialize. Of course, exactly how much you study will be determined by the quantity of work you have. Making a commitment to academia is the first and hardest step in having a successful four years at UNC; if you prepare for class and stay on top of your work, performance will take its due course. Not everyone is capable of getting straight A’s but, all are capable of doing decent work. If for no other reason, devote time to your studies because it is a challenge. Itisachallenge to enter into a predominantly white institution and prove that you belong academically. Take pride in your ability to compete in the classroom. Don’t allow yourself to become “just another black who failed out of UNC.” Rather, be a role model for your peers; instead of hanging out in front of the Undergrad, be the one who goes inside and studies. As a moderately well known black minister put it, “You can make a difference!” Make a difference this semester, for the university, your friends and most importantly for yourself. Black Student Movement Welcomes The Class of 1995 ” Knowledge of a black culture" Congratulations on being accepted to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. There are many experiences awaiting you here. We hope that you will have a successful transition into the University. The Black Student Movement (BSM) is a tool that can be very useful to you during your years here at Carolina. The BSM as a group serves many purposes. It tackles issues that come up against not only African Americans, but also all other minorities on campus. The theme of the BSM for the 1991-92 year is “Knowledge of a Black Culture.” This theme reflects the need for cultural diversity on campus as well as the understanding of a need for a Black Cultural Center on campus. Cultural diversity will be a major issue on campus this year. There are four subgroups under the umbrella of the BSM: the Ebony Readers perform (orally interpret) narratives, poems and other forms of literature written by African American authors; the Gospel Choir performs contemporary gospel songs as well as gospel classics; the Opeyo! dancers perform traditional African dances, jazz, hip hop and other dances; and finally. Black Ink, the official newspaper of the BSM, gives minority students an opportunity to explore their creative journalistic talents, voicing their own opinion and their own perspective. The B S M will be actively promoting cultural diversity through the subgroups and with many differentprograms sponsored by the Administrative Committee of the BSM. We have a lot of work ahead of us and I strongly urge you to come join the BSM and take an active role on campus. Good luck this fall.— Black Student Movement Vice-President, Stormie Forte Interested in becoming a part of Black Ink? Black Ink needs editors, writers, photographers, ad representatives, copy editors and all others prepared to make Black Ink the best that it can be. Get the experience that you need! Think Black Ink 11 Black Ink August 14,1991
Black Ink (Black Student Movement, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill)
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Aug. 14, 1991, edition 1
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