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Essay On African American Experience

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At young age my parents took the time to involve me in any and every activity I seemed to have an interest in, allowing me to ultimately make the decision as to what activity I would take seriously and maintain. Through this process, I realized that the sports I had the most liking to, were the sports that had a very low representation of African Americans. As an African American male, who would rather dive off a diving block and kicking a soccer ball then shoot a jump shot or carry for 25 yards, I faced an immense amount of backlash. Even though, I was simply doing what I loved do, I couldn't help but notice the obvious stares, whispers, and flat out disrespect. While this may have been an incredibly discouraging experience, I learned and inherited some many worthwhile qualities in the process. I may have acquired incredible teamwork and leadership abilities but I also acquired and learned the importance of discipline and dedication, and were ultimately able to implement these qualities into other areas of my life.

I would pack my shin guards or goggles and headed out to display my talents for a group of people that were baffled at my attendance. Always and forever, the only black kid at the swim meet or soccer tournament, an …show more content…
Growing up in a predominantly white community, always being the only African American in everything I joined, I decided to attend Howard University, and without any reservations. Normally, jumping into an environment without a lot of firsthand experience in, wouldn't be advised, but my participation in activities that lack those look like me taught me to be able to work and feel comfortable with all groups of people. My initial experience with the principles of “team” and “teamwork”, allowed me to advance my academic efforts and choose an institution based on opportunities and curriculum rather than where I thought I might “Fit

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