“As an African American you’re going to an environment you deem relatable.”
Our culture affects the environment around us. Who you decide to surround yourself around can also have significance on your overall identity. Most times, people like to be around others that share the same experiences, traditions, and/or beliefs. For example, Historically Black Colleges or Universities, HBCUs, could be top choices for African American students because of the safe space they provide. Other than offering an education, they can offer you a place where the faculty not only care about your schoolwork but also about you and your mental well-being. The same experience might be different for someone who is not African American. The same space and faculty will still be provided, but the value of the school will be held to a lesser standard. In the interview with sports commentator, Stephen Smith, which is linked below, he talks about the seriousness of how an HBCU can change an African American student.
HBCU Week. “The Importance of HBCUs.” Youtube, uploaded by HBCU Week, 25 June 2020, https://youtu.be/VzSiNnv3cJQ.