Have you ever walked into a room and felt like everyone else got a secret memo you missed? That’s kind of what being a Black teen at a PWI (that’s a Predominantly White Institution) can feel like. But guess what? You’re not alone, and you’re way cooler and stronger than you think! Let’s dive into this world together, and I’ll give you the lowdown on how to not just survive, but shine.

Learning Who You Are

Think of your high school years as a super important quest – a journey to figure out who you really are. Now, throw in the fact that you might be one of the few Black faces in your classes or clubs. It can feel like everyone else is on one team, and you’re… well, figuring out which team you’re even playing for!

But here’s the awesome secret: being different is your superpower! You have a unique way of seeing the world, a special flavor that no one else has. Embrace it! Maybe your style is the freshest, or your laugh is the loudest, or you’ve got opinions that make people think. That’s YOU. Don’t try to shrink yourself down to fit into someone else’s box. Your box is way cooler anyway.  

Sometimes being different at a PWI can feel… not so fun. You might hear little comments that make you scratch your head, or maybe you feel like your experiences aren’t really understood. These little annoying things are called microaggressions. Think of them like tiny paper cuts – they don’t seem like much on their own, but they can sting and add up over time.

When I first began attending classes at Canisius High School in Buffalo, NY, I was scared that I wouldn’t fit in.  On top of already being within the minority on campus as far as my race and ethnicity were concerned, I was also among a handful of students who were in a lower tax bracket than the rest of my class.  I initially expected to be bullied and experience racism at a level I’ve never experienced going to public schools my entire life.  However, I was met with compassion and inclusivity that is honestly unmatched anywhere else I’ve been.  Regardless of that, there have always been some major differences that helped shape me into the person I am today.  

It might take time to really know yourself, and that’s okay. Try new things! Join that book club, even if you’re the only one who looks like you. Audition for the school play. Volunteer in your community. Each experience will help you learn more about what makes you tick and who you’re becoming.

Being Ok With Being Different

Someone might say something like, “Wow, you speak so well!” Like… duh? Or maybe they’ll touch your hair without asking. It’s weird, right? It can make you feel like you’re constantly explaining yourself or that you don’t quite belong.  When people see something they haven’t been exposed to much before, it’s natural to be curious, regardless of how uncomfortable it may make you feel. 

While most of me embraced who i was throughout my highschool years, there has always been a part of me that was ashamed that my hair gets nappy and shrinkms when it gets wet, or that i was loud with everything i did, part of me was scared to express my joy and interest in the ways that i was used to.  It’s hard to be comfortable with being yourself when nobody is expressive around you.  Every time I would show the world who I am, all I ever got was stared at, and that makes it hard to continue to shine.

But their weirdness is not your problem. You are amazing just the way you are. It takes guts to be different, especially when you’re surrounded by people who might not get it. Give yourself a huge pat on the back for showing up as YOU every single day.

Find your people! Maybe there’s a Black Student Union at your school, or maybe there are just a few other students who get you. Stick together! Talk about your experiences. You’ll find strength in knowing you’re not the only one feeling this way.  At Canisius, my class stepped up and began a black student union in our senior year, aiming to leave behind a support system for the students like us coming into high school with a fear of being different.

Beyond the Isolation: Real Talk About Thriving as a Black Student at a PWI

Feeling alone in a crowd? It happens. But you don’t have to stay on that lonely island! There are ways to build your own awesome crew and make your PWI feel more like home.

First, look around. Are there any clubs or groups that sound interesting? Even if they’re not specifically for Black students, you might find people who share your passions. Don’t be afraid to be the first to say hi!  For me, what began to break barriers was playing sports, especially football. 

Finding people who look like me and have the same interests as me was what made my time in high school enjoyable.  It’s hard to be alone, but having a support system around you, people surrounding you that are going through the same experiences as you, is the most valuable resource you can have as a teenager trying to find yourself.  

Think about connecting with Black folks outside of school, too. Are there community groups, churches, or events where you can connect with people who share your background? Building a strong support system both inside and outside of school can make a huge difference.

Remember, you bring something special to the table. Your perspective, your experiences, your awesomeness – it all makes your school a richer place. Don’t hide your light!

From Microaggressions to Movements: Your Guide to Navigating and Changing Your PWI

Okay, those little paper cuts we talked about? Sometimes they can make you feel powerless. But guess what? You have more power than you think!  All it takes is one voice to capture attention.  One person to be different, no matter how hard it may seem at first, be that difference, and watch how the world will back you up.  

One of the first steps is knowing what’s up. When someone says something that feels off, it’s okay to name it. You can say something like, “Hmm, that didn’t sound quite right,” or “Can you explain what you meant by that?” You don’t have to be angry, but you do have the right to speak up for yourself.

Find your voice! Maybe you’re a writer, an artist, or a super organized person. Use your talents to raise awareness about the things that matter to you. Start a conversation in your school newspaper, create some powerful artwork, or organize a small group to talk about diversity.  For me, it took writing songs and making more music to make a difference.  

Remember those awesome people you connected with? Team up! There’s strength in numbers. Together, you can talk to school leaders about making your PWI a more welcoming and understanding place for everyone. Maybe you want to see more books by Black authors in the library, or maybe you want more teachers who look like you. Your voice matters!

Being a Black teen at a PWI can be a journey with some bumps along the way. But remember that you are strong, you are unique, and you have the power to not only navigate this world but to make it better. Embrace who you are, find your crew, and don’t be afraid to speak up. Your story is important, and you’ve got this!