October brings pumpkin spice lattes, apple cider, cool fall weather, and Halloween. October at an HBCU brings a tailgate, concerts, a football game, a fashion show, consistent parties, and alumni.
It’s homecoming season!
Historically, homecoming was intended for alumni to return to campus and showcase their school spirit. Since then, the event has evolved into a week-long experience you don’t want to miss. After weeks of lectures, quizzes, and midterms, homecoming allows students to unwind and enjoy the playful side of college.
Alumni travel from across the country to come back to their homes. All week the campus is shared by alumni, current students, staff, and faculty; cultivating in school spirit. It’s one big family reunion!
Alumni often speak with current students, sharing their experience on campus and their experience now that they are graduates of the school. By speaking with alumni, young and energetic students grow a love for the institution and may provoke efforts to enhance it for the next class.
While we’re partying, we’re networking, don’t get it messed up!
The fashion at an HBCU on a regular day is always on point, but the fashion during homecoming is jaw-dropping. Everyone comes through with their best looks. Scrolling on Instagram is a fashion show within itself! The actual fashion show is one event you absolutely can’t miss out on.
The step show is the ultimate competition of the week. The Divine Nine Greeks compete for the title of the step show champions for the year. Even if you’re not apart of the D9, it’s still something everyone should see.
What’s homecoming without a football game? Of course, we root for our home team, however, we’re here for half time! The band is the best part of the game. HBCU bands are undefeated but they always go all out for Homecoming half time!
What’s a football game without a tailgate? The tailgate at the homecoming game is a huge cookout! Alumni and organizations set up their tents with food and events. The party starts before the football team even hits the field! The tailgate continues even after the game is done so don’t miss it. It is the ultimate HBCU homecoming experience.
Last but not least, on the Sunday of homecoming, you know where we’re headed; Church. We spend the last day together usually at a gospel concert. It’s the perfect ending to a funfilled week!
Homecoming will always be a tradition at an HBCU that will never die down. It’s more than just one big party. It’s networking, building new relationships, and celebrating. As current students, alumni, faculty, and staff we walk the same ground that our ancestors walked on and bask in their legacy.
Check on your HBCU friends this October, we’re missing out on homecoming and we are not okay!