Get Real with It Seeking Opportunities While at Alfred

Get Real with It is a new program started by Taquon Middletown and Nickie Hockenberry. The program’s goal is to inspire minority students to be successful and take advantage of opportunities while at Alfred by hearing the inspirational stories of guest speakers. The first session was held on February 26^th and is a bi-weekly program. Taquon was one of the first speakers because he is one of the cofounders of the program. When Taquon came to Alfred he made partying, drinking, and illegal activities his main priority. He got arrested often and did not focus on academics. Kim Williams noticed his behavior and encouraged him to get his life turned around. He started going to counseling sessions, made goals and priorities, and keeps a positive attitude. He has a new mindset. He has worked really hard, got his grades up, got a job on campus, and received scholarships to spend a semester abroad.

Another guest speaker at this event was Thomas Daniels. Thomas grew up in the Bronx. His mother was a single parent and the mother of seven children. His dad was not involved in his life because he was incarcerated. To protect his family, Thomas joined a gang. When he was 16 his friend was shot in the back of the head and as he lay dying he asked “why me?” Thomas watched his friend die and became angry because he felt that the world lost a really good person. He was encouraged to go to college and came to Alfred. When he first arrived, he was very angry, not expressive, and did not open up. He then decided to make changes when he started counseling. He started working, volunteering, and excelling.

Alfred provides many opportunities for college students. Talking to people, joining clubs, and getting your name out there can be the best opportunities to accomplish dreams. There are people here who truly care about the students. Discover who you are, vent feelings, and take full advantage of the opportunities here like Taquon and Daniel. “I believe that anything is possible, believing starts within yourself. The opinions of others have no value, just believe. You have to want success as much as your next breath,” Taquon commented.