Interview with Amistad Academy Middle alum Alexandria

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In 2002 we created the Amistad Academy Alumni Program to support Amistad Academy alumni as they transition from middle school to high school, college and life beyond. Read an interview with Amistad alum Alexandria below:

 

Alumni Interview: Alexandria Blackwood

Amistad Academy Middle School, Class of 2005
University of Tampa, Class of 2013
Major: Elementary Education

What is the most exciting thing that you've done during your college experience?

I was inducted in the freshman honors society. You need a GPA of 3.5 or higher to be inducted, so it felt really prestigious and exciting. If I maintain a high GPA and take at least five honors courses during college, I will graduate with honors distinction.The second exciting thing was when we discussed Amistad Academy in my education class. I happened to be wearing my Amistad t-shirt that day, and my teacher was so excited when I said that I went there. He said it is a great example of a school that is closing the achievement gap. We also watched a video about Amistad, and I happened to be in the video!

What is the biggest challenge you faced as a college student?

I have struggled with time management. It has been tough to learn that I should not wait until the last minute to start papers. I need to start early and pace myself. My friends have been really helpful with this--they encourage me to do my homework instead of hang out.

Do you have any words of advice for current AF students?

Don't forget about your AF family, your teachers and advisors because they are a great support system. Even though you don't go to an AF school anymore, they are still there for you. Many people, including Ms. [Sihaya] Reid and Ms. [Samantha] Miller have helped me with personal issues--like housing at school. Additionally, I would tell current AF students not to be too proud to ask for help, whether it is from teachers or someone in your class. And, get involved on campus. For example, join clubs and groups. That is how you meet people. Finally, before you choose your college, make sure you visit it and talk to current students; make sure you can see yourself there.

What are your plans for after college?

My plans are to come back to Connecticut, get my master's degree and teach. I would love to be a principal one day. I want to influence peoples' lives like my teachers influenced mine. If it weren't for my teachers and my parents I would be a totally different person. I want to teach elementary school and teach my students to be good people--people who help others, are open-minded, non-judgmental and excited to learn.

What do you value most about your Amistad Academy Middle experience?

I value the dedication and hard work of my teachers. They stayed at school working late at night because they wanted us to have the best education possible. They pushed us to work hard and not to settle. They made us believe that we could do everything we wanted.