In most instances when people hear the word “minority” when used in reference to race they immediately come to the conclusion that the people in that group are African-American, Asian, Hispanic, or American Indian.
However, in some cases this is not true. For example, the amount of non African-American students enrolled at WSSU. There are 4,102 graduate and undergraduate students at WSSU for the 2003-2004 school year. Almost 4,000 of the students enrolled are undergraduate students, of these students 684 are not African-American.
Although WSSU was founded as a historically Black university many different individuals of different races have found that WSSU is the place for them to continue their educations WSSU offers a variety of programs that people from various descents find interesting.
Anna Bear, a caucasian second-degree student seeking a degree in Spanish, said, “I wanted to study Spanish so I came to talk to Dr. Brookshaw; after talking with him about the Spanish program here I decided to come to WSSU. My experience here so far has been absolutely excellent. I enjoy attending this university very much. As a person seeking a second-degree I am very thankful for the excellent education I am receiving. I enjoy my classes, the instructors, the students and the environment here.”
The “minorities” on the campus of WSSU have many reasons for attending the university. Sophomore Mass Communications major Seth Bowman, also Caucasian, said, ” I initially chose WSSU because of the scholarship I was offered but I have been pleasantly surprised by the depth and quality of the Academic programs here. I enjoy living on campus, the classes are excellent, especially the hands-on opportunities that the Mass Communications Department provides.”
Senior English major Angie Stafford said that she chose WSSU for the location and English program. “WSSU is the most convenient university for me. I have found many friendships here that I hope will be life-long relationships. I enjoy attending this university and would very much like to come back here to teach,” she stated.
Many students in the minority groups at WSSU have tried other schools and found that WSSU is the university for them.
Junior Mass Communications major and one of the “minorities” at WSSU Michaela Siegrist states, ” I tried UNC-Charlotte, but I did not like it. Since WSSU is one of the universities located close to home I applied. I love WSSU. From the first time I stepped on campus students were very helpful and friendly. Nobody has their nose up in the air and everyone treats you like family. I enjoy attending this university because I learn something new everyday. Whether it be from the instructors or students.”