Students blog

Homecoming at Tuskegee University

This year marks my third homecoming at Tuskegee University, and let me tell you, homecoming at THEE HBCU is an experience like no other. Every year, the atmosphere is electric—full of love, pride, and a deep sense of community.

It’s a time when alumni of all ages come together to celebrate the rich history and promising future of our beloved school. If you’ve ever been, you know we do it big.

Over the years, I’ve learned a lot about how to make the most of this special time. Here are a few tips I’ve picked up to ensure your homecoming experience is fun, safe, and rewarding.

1. Attend Events & Network

One of the best things about homecoming is the variety of events—from tailgates and step shows to alumni mixers and panel discussions. This is your opportunity to meet new people, build new friendships, and reconnect with old ones. As an HBCU student, you’re part of an incredible network, and homecoming is the perfect time to tap into it.

For students, homecoming offers a golden opportunity to network with alumni working in fields you’re interested in. I’ve had the chance to speak with alumni in industries like finance and accounting, and it’s been inspiring to hear about their career journeys and get advice on navigating life after graduation. The connections you make here could lead to internships, job opportunities, or even long-term mentorships.

2. Plan Ahead

With so many activities packed into a short amount of time, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and accidentally miss an event you wanted to attend. To avoid missing out, plan which events you’ll attend ahead of time.

Prioritize the activities that align with your interests and career goals. Whether it’s a meet-and-greet with alumni or a career panel, be strategic with your time to make the most of your homecoming experience.

3. Prioritize Safety

As much as we want to have fun, safety should always be our top priority. When navigating large crowds, especially at night, make sure to stay with a group. Keep your phone charged, know where the emergency exits are, and stay aware of your surroundings.

Whether it’s your first homecoming or you’re a seasoned attendee, prioritizing your safety ensures you can fully enjoy everything the event has to offer.

4. Be Yourself

Homecoming is all about authenticity and being yourself. Embrace the tradition, the culture, and the energy, but don’t feel pressured to be someone you’re not. When you're true to yourself, it’s easier to connect with others, and you’ll naturally gravitate toward the events and people that align with your interests.

5. Have Fun!

Finally, don’t forget to have fun! Homecoming at Tuskegee University is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of our legacy and our future. Enjoy the moments, create lasting memories, and take in the sights and sounds of this amazing experience.

Every school has their own homecoming celebrations and traditions. Make your next homecoming unforgettable!

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started! 

Hi, I'm Aissa! I’m currently studying business administration with a concentration in accounting at Tuskegee University. I’ve always had a love for numbers and organization, which is what drew me to accounting. However, my passion doesn't stop my college experience; there has been a balance of academic rigor and active involvement in campus life, helping me grow in ways I never imagined.

Since starting at Tuskegee, I’ve engaged with clubs and organizations that have shaped my college experience and made the transition from being far away from home so much easier. One of my proudest achievements so far has been becoming the National Business Manager for UNCF (United Negro College Fund). This role allows me to contribute to an incredible cause by helping to raise funds and awareness for scholarships that support all college students.

In addition to being on a national board, I serve as the treasurer for several organizations on campus: the NAACP, the Pre-Alumni Council, and the Ohio Club. Managing finances for these groups has given me real-world experience and allowed me to give back to the community that’s supported me. I also hold the position of Social Media Chair for the Entrepreneurial and Leadership Club, where I get to combine my love for organization with my interest in digital communication.

I became a Pearson Campus Ambassador last Fall, and it’s been a fantastic opportunity to engage with other students, promote educational resources, and connect with a broader network. As if all that wasn’t enough, I’m also a Dean's List scholar, which keeps me focused on maintaining high academic standards while juggling my extracurricular responsibilities.

Despite all the commitments, I’ve managed to keep a healthy balance by making time for my friends and family, especially when I need a break from the hustle of daily life. Being so far from home can be tough, but getting involved in campus activities has helped me feel connected, not just to my university, but also to the community I’m building here.

Being active on campus has not only helped me grow personally and professionally but also made adjusting to life away from home a little easier. No matter where life takes me, I am thankful for the opportunities I’ve had to make a positive impact at Tuskegee University, and I’m excited to continue on this journey of growth, leadership, and success.

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started!