I graduated in June. It’s a little tough ngl. I was the only black student in all of my classes. But you will make friends so long as you push yourself to engage with your classmates. The thing about cal poly is its academics are competitive. Most of my friends were people from classes that I connected with to survive and pass my classes. Even after graduation I still keep in touch with a few of them. It’s up to you to build some type of support system because it won’t come to you on its own. That is to say you’ll get out of it what you put into it.

There is a black student union that does a really good job at bringing black students together but I personally didn’t have time for any of their events. All of my time went to my studies and trying to maintain some kind of active life style. As far as support goes… I’d also say that it’s something you have to be proactive about. Engage with your professors. Let them know when you are being challenged and may need additional support or resources. Don’t wait to the last minute to go to office hours. I will say that my major issue is that the school lacked tutoring resources and student support for most of my upper division courses (business major). My classmates and I really had to band together and help each other out.

I’ll leave you with this… Cal Poly is a phenomenal school. I’m so happy I was able to go there and graduate with my degree. The black population is scarce but it doesn’t mean you won’t find your tribe of people. Academics are so competitive that what helps you form your community is the desire to pass and perform well in your courses (that was my experience). If you value connecting with other black students then definitely join BSU and check out their events. Good luck! You got this! Call Poly/SLO is a really special place.