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Stesha Emmanuel
MATCH Class of 2004
Attending Brown University
Double Major in Political Science and Africana Studies
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Interview with Stesha
How well do you feel MATCH prepared you for college?
Well, from what I've seen, MATCH has grown tremendously in terms of the curriculum and giving each student individualized attention. That's not to say my class didn't receive the same treatment and dedication, but we were the first for everything and thus the "guinea pigs". I think socially I left MATCH well prepared and able to multi-task between joining organizations, having fun, and doing my work.
What was the biggest challenge you faced in the transition from high school to college?
Honestly, learning how to function in a school where you're not racially of the majority. You realize that some people are still very ignorant to think racism doesn't exist. It does.
What is your most memorable moment from MATCH?
All of freshmen year, it was the best! We had recess (I know, I know) but it was fun. We would playfight, play kickball, and just have a good time. The "Planning Room" is a term only the first two classes would know but that concept in general was funny. Basically, if you were involved in any disciplinary trouble, you had to go to the "planning room" and write what happened, how you could change your actions, etc. That year was all about unity.
If you could give one piece of advice to all the current MATCH students, what would it be?
Don't EVER let anyone tell you, "You can't . . ." and sometimes, realize that you are your own worst enemy and you speak negativity into your own life. Remember, there's power of life and death in the tongue.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Finishing up either my PhD in either Political Science or Africana Studies, or law school.
How has MATCH contributed, or not contributed, to either creating this five-year plan or to preparing you to fulfill this five-year plan?
MATCH continues to support my dreams and connect me with important information and people. Utilize MATCH! All jokes aside, it's nice to know there's an institution that believes in you. MATCH has helped me think about different avenues I could choose to make my dreams/goals a reality.
What is your funniest memory from MATCH?
Ummmmm . . . class with Ms. Vogel. My class knows what I'm talking about.
Who from MATCH has had the greatest impact on you, and why?
Everyone has had a hand in helping to impact me at MATCH so I would feel bad to pinpoint only one person. Each person has contributed an experience, idea, or friendship on different occasions throughout the years. But I guess since you asked for someone I'll have to acknowledge Mr. Sposato and Mr. Hill. Mr. Hill always encouraged me to work harder and somehow convinced me that I should take "Introduction to British Literature and Culture" my senior year of MATCH at Boston College. He believed in my ability that much. And I don't think I have ever seen anyone more excited about my acceptance to Brown than Mr. Sposato. He always slipped a word of acknowledgement to my work. I deeply appreciated that.
How has MATCH supported you since graduating?
With a job! Also, I LOVE this new scholarship for MATCH alums. We get to send in our book bill and they help us out.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
In order to understand the present or even progress to the future, know your history. And then do better, be better. Oh, and if you can GO STUDY ABROAD!!!! I'm planning on going to South Africa next semester.
Interview conducted Fall 2006.
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Past Spotlights
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Stesha Emmanuel Interview
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