HBCUs Abroad Presents: David
Hailing from the Golden State of California, David W. Thomas Jr. was born and raised in the City of Oakland. Throughout his undergraduate career at Howard University in Our Nation's Capitol, David has been pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science with a minor in Economics. David’s possess a diversified network and skill set. As an undergrad, he has worked with organizations such as the California Department of Justice, the United States Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, as well as three different marketing agencies, where he represented companies such as VH1, Procter & Gamble, United Negro College Fund, the Coca Cola Company, ESPN, and the 2014 American Music Awards.
"However, there are people in my area who have barely made it out of their own 50 mile radius, or have died around age 18."
What is your favorite memory from study abroad?
While in Africa, I definitely enjoyed the sense of serenity that I felt. I had been brainwashed into the believing that Africans were all poor and lived in a state of anarchy. I never felt as if my life was in danger. Never felt as if my identity was going to comprised. Above all, I actually felt as if I was "home" and not in the cliche "Finally Home to the Motherland (fist pump)" manner of how I've observed some Americans try to mock. I truly felt welcome by the Ghanaian people, especially the men. The most powerful thing that was ever shared with me was from a man in Kumasi, Ghana. It has truly stuck with me ever since. As he puts his arm out and puts it next to mine, he states the following. "Look, we have the same skin color. No matter where you are in this world, remember to trust your own. At the end of the day, WE are all that we have."
While in Europe, I only can recall one issue of overt racism. In the Netherlands, I was almost attacked by a gang of "skinhead" men dressed in all black during the day time. Luckily for me, I was in the presence of riot police who were able to ensure that I was safe. This truly opened my eyes to the fact that our world is not as "color blind" as we project it to be.
How has study abroad impacted your global awareness?
How has study abroad impacted your education and/or career?
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- The Natural Travelista