Wilbert S.

Year: Senior
Major: History
Hometown: Spring Valley, NY

What activities are you involved with at Oswego?
I am Vice President/Director of Program of The Black Student Union for the 2011-2012 year. A Ronald E. McNair Scholar researching Hip Hop Influence on Black Masculinity. Finally I am also a constituent for many other ALANA Organizations on Campus such as CSA, LSU, ASO, and ASA.

Why did you choose Oswego?
I Choose Oswego not only because I could afford it through EOP but many other factors. Some of those factors were that Oswego had my major, many campus resources I could utilize, and a large number of organizations I could explore. The Most important factor I must say however are the people. The Connections I made with a variety of people have truly made my college experience all the more fruitful. 

What is the best thing about your major?
The best thing about being a history major is the large variety of concentrations to choose from. My concentration is African American History which correlates with my minor and the organization BSU that I am a part of so everything goes together. Whats even better is that I combine history with almost any major I want because there is history in everything.

Generally speaking, what impact has the Oswego faculty had on you?  
The faculty on this campus has truly given me the skills necessary to pursue and achieve my goals. The faculty in OLS has given me useful skills and resources to advance in my undergraduate career. On the other hand being a McNair Scholar the faculty of this program have given me the resources and methods needed to transition into graduate school.

Who's your favorite professor and why?
Dr. Kenneth E. Marshall is not just one of my favorite history professors but a valuable mentor and friend. He has inspired me to pursue a PHD in African American History and truly educate the youth and fight against ignorance. I wish to not just learn from this man but to surpass him.

Describe your department's atmosphere and how it has enhanced your ability to learn.
The History Department has not only given me the resources to further explore and succeed in my major but also offer me work as a desk attendant. As a History Department Desk Attendant I was able to meet many faculty and professors within my department furthering my list of connections. I have also learned many intern and scholar programs which I could utilize like McNair to further my career after my undergraduate degree. 

What's the best thing about SUNY Oswego?
 The best thing about this campus is the people. Without the large variety of people from different backgrounds this campus and college would have no life. The people I have met so far have truly inspired me and given me knowledge to further advance myself as a student.

Comment on how your Oswego experience has helped prepare you for a career.
From being a McNair Scholar, EOP Peer Leader, EOP Admission Intern, Vice President of BSU, and History Department Desk Attendant I have learned to communicate with many different people. Along with those communication skills I was able to effectively teach, share and learn from those people. This skill will help me as I pursue my PhD so that I can teach as a professor as well as one day open a charter school in the Bronx, Mount Vernon, and my home town of Spring Valley in Rockland County.

What opportunities has Oswego given you that you never had before?
Oswego has given me the chance to learn. This school has given me the chance to learn who I am, what I am capable of, and what I can do to use those skills and knowledge to better my community. Before coming to this school I was lost and confused. I thank God and my Family for pushing me to further my education and truly finding myself.