Dozie Itie, Class of 2023

Once, when walking to the library at San Diego State, I was told by the police officers that I matched a description and was stuck in a police car for over an hour. Never think your education or your attempt to get it will change how society looks at you. I chose San Diego State because I thought it would cover my expenses and I thought my adviser was good, but I would probably not choose it again. My school doesn’t have the services I need. There are resources, but it’s still very small. I can get them, but generally, I have to look for them. Either through emails or by my other black colleagues. San Diego State is starting to support black students. We have an area for black students, and there are programs, but it’s just starting to happen. I think San Diego State tries to be supportive of women, the disabled, and LGBTQ+ as well. Overall, I do not feel represented. I am the only black person in my cohort or graduate program. Basically, I wish they would try to incorporate more people of color and make sure the faculty is behind what the school is doing. If you are a prospective student, know that your advisor will say they understand, but they really don’t.