Seeking the truth: My experience at Framingham State

Izayah Morgan Opinions Editor Framingham State is one of nine public state universities for any future educator in Massachusetts. I would say this is undoubtedly the best option. In my experience, the professors in my department (psychology) have not only prepared me for my graduate experience next year, but they are figures who will have my back when it comes to anything I might pursue afterward. Other departments, such as English, sociology, and education, have all provided me with a robust experience and educational opportunities. The community of students has taught me to be inquisitive and seek the truth. Even though we are a small campus, the friends I've made at social events, clubs, and small hangouts have fostered a sense of belonging. More importantly, they feel earned and lifelong. Physically, this University has helped me grow into my full adult form. Coming into my freshman year, I was extremely underweight because of previous medical issues combined with the fact my muscle mass was also extremely low compared to my total body weight. Because of the friends I made, open gym access here seven days a week, nutritional options at the dining hall (and being able to eat as much as I wanted), I am now a healthy weight for my height, and I have adequate amount of muscle mass, with around 22 Body Mass Index (BMI). I’ve won more awards at this University than I have space for - so I've had to buy a trophy case for the first time in my life. The awards recognize my work experience at the Center for Inclusive Excellence, the Center for Academic Success and Achievement, and The Gatepost. Academically, socially, and physically, I have reached my peak - thanks to Framingham State University. However, that doesn’t mean the experience has been all award ceremonies and inspirational instruction. There’s an old saying that has never left my mind since I was a child: “You have to work twice as hard for half as much.” As a Black man, I have had to show up in spaces biting my tongue. In those same spaces, I have been asked if I belong there or if what I'm wearing is appropriate. Then, I have to think to myself, “If I were a white man wearing the same clothes, would I get this feedback?” Even though almost half the enrollment at FSU is BIPOC students, the comments and microaggressions from others never really stop. I've been in classrooms where the professor slips up and says something insensitive to people in the room. And when you try to bring it up to people who seem to be in a position where they can do something about it, the concern instead gets pushed to the side, and you are made to feel your experience is invalid. This is hard because oftentimes, it can feel as if you're the only person seeing this behavior, so you don't feel strong enough to come forward. I want the University to do better with supporting their students when they come forward about issues of this nature. Imposter syndrome was also something I experienced in my first year at FSU - feeling as if I wasn’t smart enough, bold enough, or extroverted enough to fit in. The feeling lasted for a little longer than I wanted, but once everything clicked, that feeling vanished. Overall, would I go back in time to experience FSU again? ‘Ram’ straight I would.