I love my home by the sea, and being in quarantine has made me miss my beloved HBCU even more. As a senior, I can say some of my best memories have come from my time there. Now no school is perfect. Still, Hampton has so much to offer to its students. Here are some of the best things about Hampton.
- Sense of family
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The family atmosphere is prevalent as soon as you step foot on campus. Everyone looks out for one another. The professors check in on you. It does not matter where you’re from or what you’re studying. Once you come to Hampton, you are a Hamptonian for life.
- Pirates Grill
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We all have been there before. It’s the middle of the week, and you walk into the cafe, and there are no options. I mean nothing at all. If you did not spend all of your pirate bucks, then go head over to Pirates Grill. Pirates Grill always comes to the rescue whenever there is no other option. And if there is one thing you must get, it is the turkey burger. I promise you will not regret it.
- So many ways to get involved
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It is rare to come in contact with a Hamptonian who is not involved in at least one organization on campus. Are you interested in political science? There’s a club for that. Are you interested in learning more about natural hair? Then there’s a club for that. Clubs and organizations on campus are a great way to get to know people and create friendships.
- Commitment to academic excellence
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There is a reason why our motto is the standard of excellence. At Hampton, we take our studies seriously. It is not rare to see the library packed around midterms or finals. One of my favorite parts about Hampton is that the students help one another out. Missed class and need the notes? Are you worried about an upcoming test? Well, don’t stress. Because at Hampton, we are quick to form a study group. We want to see everyone succeed at Hampton.
- Hampton Holidays (Homecoming, First 12-2’s, 100 Days, etc.)
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It’s always a good day to celebrate a Hampton holiday. Our Hampton holidays are essential to the Hampton culture. These are events that all Hamptonians look forward to every year. You will see everyone in their best fits, so don’t come to disappoint. My personal favorite is the first 12-2. It’s the first event of the new school year, and it sets off the school year right.
- Hampton pride
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Here at Hampton, we take pride in our university. Seriously. We take pride in our dorms, academic programs and do not forget about our class names. We are known for our various class names. There is Quintessence, Onyx, and Ogre Phi Ogre. At the end of the day, we all love each other. However, never forget that O Phi O is the best class of them all.
- The Marching Force
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Don’t sleep on the Marching Force. Our marching band is one of the best bands you will encounter at an HBCU. They do not get enough credit. Whether they are giving a great show during halftime at the football games or performing in Rome for the New Year’s Day Parade, the band never disappoints. Catch the Marching Force perform at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in 2021.
- The Waterfront
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There is a reason why we refer to Hampton as our home by the sea. The waterfront is a great place to unwind or relax, or have a random photo shoot to catch the golden hour. This is the best time to get the best lighting for your pictures for those who don’t know. I will miss having access to this beautiful view once I graduate.
- Emancipation Oak
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Emancipation Oak symbolizes Hampton’s rich history. It is near the entrance of our campus. The Emancipation Oak is the site of the first Southern reading of the Emancipation Proclamation. Every time I cross its path, I remember how fortunate I am to be at an HBCU surrounded by people who look like me. The National Geographic Society has deemed the tree as one of the ten great trees of the world. Emancipation Oak is one of the reasons that makes Hampton so unique.
- The Alumni Network
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The alumni network at Hampton is enormous. Alumni always look out for Hampton students. Here’s a tip. Try wearing your Hampton paraphernalia while you’re at the airport. You are bound to run into an alum. If you’re lucky enough, they may take you out for lunch, or may even provide you with a job opportunity. You never know. Don’t miss out on your blessing.