It really only seemed like yesterday I was moving into Graves Hall on the hallowed grounds of Morehouse as a freshman. Well, maybe that’s a bit of an exaggeration. It feels more like a couple weeks ago really. My freshman year zipped by and now I’m watching the incoming freshmen class of Morehouse 2020. They are bristling with excitement, ready for all that the AUC has to offer to them. I too was excited, seeing all the new faces on campus. With this new class, comes future orators, businessmen, entertainers, activists and leaders just waiting to be discovered. They are a class of untapped potential, and as they move through Mother Morehouse, they will be refined by the institution and their peers.

Although I am just now a sophomore (a “wise fool” in the original Greek), I have witnessed and experienced enough that I have to share a few bits of wisdom. To the Class of 2020, I offer the following advice.

• Wake up every day and appreciate this great opportunity you have been offered.
• Morehouse, the AUC, and Atlanta all have amazing opportunities for you, but you must have the agency to seek them out on your own.
• Do not think too highly of yourself, overly prideful, and full of bravado. College is a wonderful experience that humbles you as it exposes you to new people and philosophies.
• As you navigate through these new worldviews, find something that centers you. Religion, spirituality, a higher power. Whatever it may be you must be careful to guard your heart with the temptations that come with the freedom of college.
• Make sure you join some student organizations. Not too many though. I joined nine last year and didn’t have much time to sleep.
• GET SOME SLEEP. Don’t brag about how much work you can do with only three hours of sleep. It’s not healthy. Get some rest.
• Keep your GPA up. That’s the MOST important thing!
• Get out and experience some social events. Kickbacks are better than clubs. (At least that’s what I’ve heard).
• Time management will make or break you. Get organized.
• Have fun. Freshman year is a great time. Cherish every second of it.