Clark Atlanta University Panther. (Atlanta, Georgia) 1989-????, October 09, 1991, Image 7

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Page 7 Clark Atlanta University Panther October 9, 1991 LIFESTYLE FILLING GIANT FOOTSTEPS a*£.v2c4>> Jet Magazine By Jayme L. Bradford Contributing Writer No one probably would have ever known that Booker T. Washington, a freshman at Clark Atlanta University, was such a scholar unless they saw the article written about him in the July edition of Jet Magazine, which is exactly how he likes it. Preferring to be judged by his personality rather than academic capabilities, Washington is somewhat modest and humble. Experience has taught him to allow his accomplishments to speak for themselves, because he said bragging often causes downfall. "I give the credit for all the things that I do to God," Washington said. He finds pleasure with simple things such as talking on the telephone, hanging out with his friends and helping others. Not only does his personality win many second looks, but his name also makes a few heads turn because it is that of one of the most influential Black leaders in history. In addition to having the name, he was also the valedictorian of his high school in New Orleans that shared the same name. Receiving the most prestigious academic scholarships in the high school’s history, Washington not only graduated with a 4.16 grade point average, but he left with over $200,000 in scholarships. Booker T. Washington With that amount of money, he could have attended any college in the world. However, Washington said that he realized the importance of attending an exceptional Black university, and that is why he decided to attend CAU. "CAU has always been my first choice. I heard a lot of good things about the instructors and the institution," he said. The five year scholarship, worth $48,350, that he was awarded from CAU's Office of Naval Research program (ONR) allows him to pursue both a bachelor's and master's degree in mathematics. By being affiliated with the ONR program, Washington is one of 39 scholarship recipients who have decided to dedicate their careers to the betterment of Blacks in the fields of mathematics and science. Just like his name-sake, Washington plans on being an educator and using his talents to rebuild and uplift the Black community. Not only does he plan on teaching mathematics, but he wants to attain a law degree. "People have always said that I should go into law, and I believe that it is something that I will be good at. I definitely want to give something back to the Black community because that is the only way I can get something in return," he said. Due to conditions in his scholarship, Washington is unable to have a job during his college career / / /r By Sheryl Kennedy Editor-in-Chief Their carefree smiles quickly melted into grim frowns. Some students laughed and whispered jokes about the issue while others graveled and snarled at the thought. The mere thought of Spelman students living on CAU's campus. Though it is only six students living in one housing facility, you would think hundreds of Spelman students invaded the campus not just temporarily, but permanently. "I don't know why they are over here,” said Shaun Lucas, a second year graduate student." Not once has Spelman tried as a school to destroy the myth of separation and animosity between the institutions by offering support through money or just a having friendly attitude not just when they want something in return." Comments such as Lucas’ were not uncommon among CAU students. Many students were as anger as dissatisfied protestors picketing for better conditions. Not once has Spelman tried as a school to destroy the myth of separation and animosity between the institutions by offering support through money or just having a friendly attitude just when they want something in return” "Communication sucks at the school," said Joyce Banton, a freshmen at CAU. "I've only been her a short time and it doesn't surprise me at all. The Spelman incident is just the cherry on top of the cake, and when students begin to assume the administrations can’t seem to figure it out.” Most students preferred to stand in small intimate groups and utter comments such as 'snobbish girls,' or 'who needs them over here anyway.' ’’I certainly don't care for the idea," said Byron Mason, a sophomore at CAU. "One day I just happened to notice a couple of them in the cafeteria dressed in their school paraphernalia and that's when I knew the rumor was true." A few students took a different approach and agreed with the idea on one condition. "I support, if and only if the school charges them the fee for housing plus a little extra to make up for the inconvenience to our students," said Michelle Trason, a junior at CAU. unless it is directly related to his major. Nevertheless, he plans on keeping busy by participating in various campus activities. Recently, he became an official member of the CAU Honors Program and he is also interested in becoming more involved with the programs sponsored by Brawley Dormitory. In addition, he wants to become a volunteer tutor for the Black community and the students of CAU, who need assistance in mathematics. He admits that CAU is challenging him academically, socially and spiritually. Washington is optimistic and enthusiastic about his future at the university because he said he will either "find a way or make one."