Bennett College (a UNCF-member institution) is auctioning its 1931 Aaron Douglas painting of Harriet Tubman at Sotheby’s, the world-renowned marketplace for fine art and luxury objects, and will donate the proceeds to the Greensboro HBCU’s Women Health Initiative.

Harriet Tubman was commissioned for Bennett College, one of only two historically Black women’s colleges in the country. The painting is expected to sell for $2.5-$3.5 million, a record for Douglas, who was a central figure of the Harlem Renaissance. As Bennett marks 100 years, proceeds will support its future, including an initiative that helps close gaps in health care for women.

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Long before Ebony Lee decided to study pharmaceutical sciences at Lane College (a UNCF-member institution), she provided caregiving support for her grandmother. As her grandmother navigated several chronic health conditions, Lee helped organize her many prescription medications from a young age.

She witnessed first-hand how much medication management, patient education and access to quality healthcare matter.

“Those experiences sparked my curiosity about how medications work, how diseases affect the human body and why some communities experience greater barriers to receiving adequate healthcare,” Lee said.

Lee, a first-generation college student, is now a senior at Lane majoring in biology with a chemistry minor. She is a recipient of the UNCF Wells Fargo Scholarship. In 2025, she became the first student from an historically Black college or university (HBCU) to receive the Marion B. Sewer Distinguished Scholarship from the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB), which honors the memory of Marion B. Sewer, who pushed to increase the participation of historically underrepresented groups in science. This year, she became the first student in the program’s history to receive the distinction twice.

Support students like Ebony Lee

“Once was historic. Twice is unprecedented,” Lee said. “As a first-generation college student and two-time recipient of the Marion B. Sewer Distinguished Scholarship, this opportunity means a great deal to me. I am incredibly proud to see Lane College beside my name and to continue representing HBCU students in scientific spaces where our voices and talents deserve to be seen.”

For Lee, these scholarships provide much more than money. UNCF’s Wells Fargo Scholarship helped eased the financial strain of tuition and other expenses, freeing her to focus on her studies, research, leadership and service.

“Scholarships help bridge that gap by providing not only financial resources but also encouragement and reassurance,” she said. “I believe that when [donors] invest in a student’s education, you are investing in the future of their family, their community and the generations who will follow.”

A Researcher with a Mission

Lee summarizes her dream in six words: “From Lane. To Labs. To Legacy.”

Her research experiences at Rhodes College, Meharry Medical College and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital have shaped her passion for pharmaceutical sciences, healthcare equity and serving underserved communities.

During her summer breaks, she spent time in some of the nation’s leading research settings. In 2024, Lee joined a National Science Foundation-funded program at Rhodes College, where she used a common laboratory fungus to study how proteins interact to help cells stay organized. In 2025, she turned to cancer research through a National Institutes of Health-funded program at Meharry Medical College. There, she examined the molecular mechanisms that drive cancer progression and why some prostate cancers become resistant to treatment. Black men experience disproportionately high rates of prostate cancer incidence and mortality.

This past summer, Lee conducted pharmaceutical sciences research at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. She studied how a protein called PLPP5 may influence the way cells respond to different drug compounds, connecting to broader investigations of cancer biology including acute myeloid leukemia.

These research opportunities shaped her interest in oncology and connecting laboratory research with clinical outcomes. “I’m grateful to ASBMB, my mentors, Lane College, Meharry Medical College, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and everyone who continues to pour into my growth,” she shared. “My journey through cancer research and pharmaceutical sciences has continued to shape my goal of becoming a pharmacist-scientist. I want to focus on research and patient-centered care to improve health outcomes in underserved communities.”

The Road Ahead

Lee will be graduating in spring 2027 and plans to begin a Doctor of Pharmacy degree in the fall. Her goal is to become a pharmacist-scientist specializing in oncology and disease research to improve health outcomes in underserved communities disproportionately affected by cancer disparities.

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Her vision is establishing a network of community pharmacies and wellness centers in predominantly Black communities and other underserved rural and urban communities. These centers would offer prescription services, medication counseling, preventive screenings and chronic disease education. They would ideally provide affordable remedies for serious illness and disease, such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and sickle cell anemia.

Lee also hopes to mentor the next generation of underrepresented students in STEM. She is developing an initiative called The Cure Collective, which will introduce underrepresented students to careers in STEM, pharmacy sciences, medicine and biomedical research.

Leading On and Off-Campus

Lee chose Lane College for its community and legacy. “My time at Lane has taught me that excellence is not determined by the size or reputation of an institution, but by the dedication of its students and the opportunities they pursue,” she said.

At Lane, Lee has served as junior class president and president of the STEM club. She also founded the college’s American Red Cross chapter, serving as a national HBCU ambassador. She was driven to create more opportunities for students to engage in humanitarian service and community health.

Her advocacy reaches beyond campus as well. Lee is a digital organizer with the NAACP Youth & College Division and holds a leadership role in the National Society of Black Women in Medicine. She also has worn the crowns of Miss Freshman, Miss Sophomore, Miss 1936 and Miss Pre-Alumni Council.

Her message to young people who feel overlooked is direct. “We are intelligent enough,” she said. “We are capable enough. We are deserving enough. And we do not have to shrink ourselves to fit the limitations that others may attempt to place upon us.”

Spelman College, a UNCF-member institution, leads on freshman retention at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). At Spelman, 94.1% of first-year students return for their second year, according to the 2026 U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

Freshman retention is an important measure of student success that reflects how many students return back to school after their first year.

Several UNCF-member institutions make up the top 20 HBCUs that keep the most freshmen in school, with two in the top 5:

• Spelman College: 94.1%

• Morehouse College: 86.9%

• Tougaloo College: 83.2%

• Tuskegee University: 80.7%

• Dillard University: 78%

• Claflin University: 75.5%

• Wilberforce University: 74.2%

• Fisk University: 73.8%

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Key Takeaways

• College ROI compares education costs with future financial and career benefits.

• Net price matters more than a college’s advertised tuition.

• Graduation rates, career support and alumni networks can strengthen your return.

• Scholarships reduce college costs and improve potential ROI.

• HBCUs offer financial value alongside mentoring, community and professional connections.

Choosing where to attend college marks one of the biggest financial decisions you may ever make. Campus culture, athletic programs and academic reputation all matter, but so does a practical question: Will the education, experiences and connections you gain justify what you spend?

Understanding your return on investment, commonly called college ROI, can help you compare schools, majors and financial aid offers while viewing higher education as a long-term investment rather than a tuition bill.

For students considering historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), that calculation should also account for the academic support, professional networks, leadership opportunities and sense of belonging these institutions can provide. Looking at the complete picture can help you choose a college that supports both your personal growth and your financial future.

What College ROI Means

College ROI compares the money and time you invest in your education with the financial and personal benefits you receive afterward.

On the financial side, your return may include:

• Higher earnings

• Better employment prospects

• Career advancement

• Employer benefits

• Greater financial stability

Education often provides a measurable earnings advantage. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, workers with a bachelor’s degree earned median weekly wages of $1,543 in 2024, compared with $930 for workers whose highest credential was a high school diploma. Bachelor’s degree holders also had a lower unemployment rate.

Those figures show a broad trend, not a promise. Your college, major, career field, location and graduation timeline can all influence your actual results.

Start With Your True College Cost

Sticker price rarely tells you what college will actually cost. Start with net price, which includes attendance costs minus scholarships and grants you don’t have to repay.

The basic calculation looks like this:

Cost of attendance − grants and scholarships = net price

Cost of attendance may include tuition, fees, housing, meals, books, supplies and transportation. Federal Student Aid recommends comparing net prices because a college with a higher sticker price may cost less after receiving financial aid.

Next, estimate your net price for every year you expect to attend. Account for possible tuition increases and additional semesters. Graduating on time can significantly improve your college ROI by limiting extra costs and helping you enter the workforce sooner.

Don’t treat loans as discounts. Add projected interest to your total investment and use the Federal Student Aid Repayment Calculator to estimate monthly payments. A manageable payment should leave room in your future budget for housing, transportation, savings and other priorities.

Estimate Your Potential Earnings

Use the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard to compare costs, graduation rates, student debt and earnings by school or field of study.

Estimate your return by subtracting the expected earnings without your intended degree from your projected earnings after graduation. Then compare that difference with your total college cost. For example, if your degree costs $60,000 and increases your annual earnings by $15,000, you could recover the initial cost in about four years. Test conservative, moderate and optimistic salary estimates to see how different outcomes could affect your return.

Consider Graduation and Career Support

A strong college ROI depends on completing your degree and preparing for a career. Compare graduation rates and time to completion, then evaluate academic advising, internships, mentoring and career services. Programs with strong employer and alumni connections may offer greater long-term value by helping you gain experience, build relationships and find job opportunities.

Understand the Value of HBCUs

HBCUs offer an important example of why college ROI extends beyond a starting paycheck. These institutions educate students within environments that celebrate Black history, leadership and achievement while building influential alumni and professional networks.

The economic impact of HBCUs remains substantial. UNCF’s HBCU economic impact report found that HBCUs generate $16.5 billion in annual economic impact and support more than 136,000 jobs.

Prospective HBCU students should consider mentoring, campus culture, leadership opportunities and community connections. Those benefits can strengthen persistence and support long-term career development.

UNCF can help reduce the cost side of the equation. The organization awards more than $62 million in scholarships each year to students attending hundreds of colleges, including its network of 36 member HBCUs. Every scholarship lowers your net price and improves your potential return.

Make Your Decision Personal

The college with the highest published salary may not offer your best return. Your strongest choice will balance affordability, degree completion, career preparation and an environment where you can thrive.

Compare the numbers carefully, but give equal attention to the support and opportunities behind them. A smart college investment should move you toward a sustainable career, manageable debt and a future that reflects your goals.

The Texas Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church gifted $255,150 to Wiley University, a UNCF-member institution, during the university’s homecoming celebration on Oct. 23.

The conference supports Wiley every year through congregation fair share goals. Congregations, Sunday school classes, small groups, clergy and laypersons contributed $127,575. The conference had voted to match gifts received through October 15, matching contributions with another $127,575, bringing the total to $255,150.

The investment will go towards the funds that Wiley needs to raise in order to participate in UNCF’s pooled endowment fund, which has a $5 million matching challenge. Growing its endowment helps to ensure long-term financial security for the university, which has educated students for more than 150 years.

Support UNCF's pooled endowment fund

Wiley alumni have pledged to support the pooled endowment. One alum offered $6,000, another $5,000 and President and CEO Dr. Herman J. Felton, Jr. and his wife Catherine Ann Felton committed $50,000 toward the endowment match.

“We are investing in opportunities for students who have not yet walked through these doors,” said Rev. Robert Besser, conference treasurer, who presented the gift on behalf of Bishop Cynthia Fierro Harvey and the conference’s clergy, laity and congregations. “Many of the people who contributed to this gift may never meet you. But they gave because they believe in the education, the future and the mission of Wiley University. Our prayer is that the seeds planted through this gift will bear fruit for generations to come.”

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Key Takeaways

• Start networking before you need a job or internship.

• Build relationships with professors, classmates, career advisers and HBCU alumni.

• Use LinkedIn to find alumni in your target field.

• Prepare before career events and follow up within two days.

• Seek guidance from several mentors with different experiences.

• Strengthen relationships by offering support as well as requesting it.

Whether you’re stepping onto campus for the first time, preparing for senior year or entering the job market as a recent graduate, building a strong professional network ranks among the most impactful steps you can take for your career. On National Mentoring Day, UNCF is sharing advice for current students, recent grads and those transitioning into a new career.

A strong professional network can help you discover internships, learn about career paths and connect with people who want to see you succeed. For students and graduates of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), networking also offers a powerful way to tap into a community rooted in shared experiences, achievement and support.

Networking doesn’t require collecting hundreds of contacts or delivering a perfect elevator pitch. It starts with genuine conversations and grows through consistent effort. Whether you’re preparing for your first internship or considering a career change, the following networking tips can help you build meaningful professional relationships.

Start With the Network Around You

You already have a network, even if you’ve never attended a formal networking event.

• Connect with classmates, professors, coaches, career center staff and student organization leaders who can offer guidance or introduce you to others.

• Visit professors during office hours and ask about career paths related to their subjects.

• Talk with classmates about their internships and professional interests.

• Attend campus lectures, employer information sessions and career fairs, even when you are not actively searching for a job.

• Use your career center for resume reviews, mock interviews, career advice and recruiter connections. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, students who used at least one career center service received an average of 1.24 job offers, compared with one offer among students who did not use those services.

Tap Into the HBCU Alumni Community

HBCU alumni networks can extend far beyond campus. Graduates often share a deep commitment to helping current students and fellow alumni move forward. UNCF highlights alumni associations, homecoming events, professional organizations and social media groups as valuable places to build connections. Begin with your school’s alumni office or local alumni chapter. Look for graduates who work in your preferred industry, organization or city.

When you contact someone, introduce yourself, mention your shared HBCU connection and ask one specific question. A thoughtful request for a 15-minute informational interview usually works better than a general request for help finding a job.

Graduates can continue networking too. Mentoring a student, attending an alumni event or volunteering through an alumni chapter may lead to new professional relationships while strengthening the larger HBCU community.

Make LinkedIn Work for You

Your LinkedIn profile should quickly explain who you are and where you hope to go. Use a clear photo, write a focused headline and describe your academic projects, internships, leadership roles and volunteer experience with specific examples.

Use your school’s LinkedIn page to find people with relevant experience. The platform’s Alumni tab lets users explore alumni profiles and learn where graduates work, what they studied and what careers they pursued.

Personalize every connection request. Mention a shared school, academic program, organization or career interest. After connecting, engage with the person’s work by commenting thoughtfully or sharing a relevant resource. Meaningful interaction makes you more memorable than an occasional message asking for a favor.

Attend Events With a Simple Plan

Career events can feel overwhelming, but having a simple plan helps. Research attendees, identify three to five contacts and prepare a brief introduction. Bring printed copies of your resume and research the organizations that will be in attendance. Ask thoughtful questions, note key details and send a personalized follow-up within two days.

Seek Mentors and Build a Personal Board

One mentor doesn’t need to answer every career question you have. Build a small circle of people who offer different perspectives. A professor might support your academic development, an alumnus might explain an industry and a peer might share job leads.

UNCF recommends starting with faculty members, campus leaders and HBCU alumni. Students can also explore UNCF Student Professional Development Programs, which provide career coaching, leadership development and opportunities to strengthen networking and interview skills.

Show mentors that you value their time. Arrive with questions, act on useful advice and share occasional updates about your progress.

Give as Well as You Receive

The strongest networking relationships involve mutual support. You may not have years of experience, but you can still share an event, recommend a resource, celebrate someone’s achievement or introduce two people with common interests.

Stay in touch when you do not need anything. Congratulate contacts on promotions, send brief updates and check in periodically. Over time, those small actions build trust.

Your HBCU connection can open a conversation, but curiosity, reliability and generosity will sustain it. Start with one message, one event or one visit to your career center. Every authentic connection can expand your view of what comes next.

UNCF and Prime Buchholz, an independent institutional investment advisory and outsourced chief investment officer (OCIO) firm, have partnered to expand educational access to professional investment reporting and analytics through Project ACCLAIM (Accelerating Learning in Asset Investment Management), an initiative designed to provide students at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) with hands-on investment management experience.

Through the partnership, Prime Buchholz is providing students participating in Project ACCLAIM with access to PrimePlus® (primeplusanalytics.com), its proprietary investment reporting and analytics platform. The platform provides students and faculty with professional-grade tools and insights used by institutional investors, supporting the program’s mission of preparing the next generation of investment professionals—all at no cost to participating institutions.

“Our goal with Project ACCLAIM is to create meaningful opportunities for students to develop the knowledge, confidence and experience needed to succeed in investment management,” said Dr. Shawn Thomas, director of investment leadership programs and lead for Project ACCLAIM, UNCF. “Partners like Prime Buchholz help us bring the professional resources and practical experience of the investment industry into the classroom, strengthening both our students’ preparation and the long-term investment capabilities of participating institutions.”

Launched in fall 2025, Project ACCLAIM combines for-credit academic coursework, industry mentorship and student-managed investment funds to help students develop practical investment skills and expand career pathways into the asset management industry.

The initiative began at Morehouse College (a UNCF-member institution) and Howard University, before expanding to Morgan State University and Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University in 2026. With additional colleges planned, UNCF is working to establish a scalable model that strengthens institutional capacity while providing students with meaningful responsibility for managing investment assets.

Bringing Institutional Investment Tools into the Classroom

PrimePlus® is Prime Buchholz’s proprietary investment reporting and analytics platform, designed to provide institutional investors with comprehensive insights into their portfolios. The platform integrates investment data, performance reporting and portfolio analytics, enabling users to evaluate asset allocation, monitor investment performance and assess portfolio exposures.

Through Project ACCLAIM, these capabilities will help connect curriculum to the practical responsibilities of institutional portfolio management, giving students experience with the types of tools and analysis used by investment professionals.

“Project ACCLAIM is a tremendous opportunity to help prepare the next generation of investment professionals by connecting academic learning with real-world experience,” said Bill McCarron, president and managing principal, Prime Buchholz. “Building on our longstanding relationship with UNCF, we’re proud to expand our support through this partnership and help provide students with the resources and experiences that can open doors to careers in investment management.”

“PrimePlus was developed to give institutional investors the information and analytical capabilities they need to make informed decisions,” said Dan Ricci, CFA, managing principal, Prime Buchholz, and the creator of PrimePlus. “Through Project ACCLAIM, we’re putting those same capabilities directly into students’ hands, helping them connect what they’re learning in the classroom with the practical responsibilities of managing an investment portfolio.”

The partnership builds on an established relationship between Prime Buchholz and UNCF through its Lighted Pathways Program, which helps students explore careers in investment management through professional development, mentorship and internship opportunities.

Over the past six years, Prime Buchholz has hosted student interns and engaged employees as volunteer coaches, supporting UNCF’s broader efforts to strengthen pathways into the financial services industry.

As Project ACCLAIM expands to additional HBCUs, partnerships with investment industry organizations will remain an important component of UNCF’s efforts to develop sustainable, institution-based learning opportunities.

By combining academic instruction with professional technology, mentorship and real-world experience with capital management, the initiative seeks to equip students with the skills and experience necessary to pursue careers in an increasingly complex investment landscape.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the iconic One Voyage Experience, hosted by Urban One, the nation’s largest African American-owned and operated multimedia company. The One Voyage generates funding for scholarships and critical resources for students attending historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).

For the first time, UNCF is partnering with Urban One to reimagine the experience.

On Oct. 27, Maurice E. Jenkins, Jr., executive vice president and chief development officer, UNCF, will make a guest appearance on “The Rickey Smiley Morning Show” to discuss the new partnership.

Jenkins noted that through this collaboration with Urban One, One Voyage will continue its longstanding commitment to giving back by expanding access to education and opportunity for HBCU students through scholarships.

Support student scholarships

Urban One partnered with Virgin Voyages and One Voyage and sailed aboard the Resilient Lady, delivering a modern, elevated onboard experience. The 2026 sailing takes place from Oct. 26 to Nov. 1, departing from Miami, FL, with stops in Nassau, Bahamas and the Beach Club at Bimini. Award-winning syndicated radio host and comedian Rickey Smiley will host this year’s voyage, joined by a host of top entertainers in hip-hop, R&B and gospel.

After the One Voyage cruise ends, contributions can still be made in connection with this initiative at uncf.org/cruise.

Key Takeaways

• Start career planning early and adjust your goals as you learn.

• Match career options with your interests, strengths and values.

• Build career-ready skills through classes, jobs and campus activities.

• Gain practical experience before graduation through internships and service.

• Use your HBCU community, alumni network and UNCF resources.

• Update your resume and professional online presence each semester.

College offers more than a path to a degree. It gives you time to explore careers, build practical skills and create relationships that can support your professional growth. You don’t need to map your entire future today, but a strong career plan helps you make thoughtful decisions about what to try next.

Career planning for college students involves identifying your interests, researching occupations, developing workplace skills and gaining experience before graduation. Whether you attend an historically Black college or university (HBCU) or another institution, the following steps can help you approach that process with greater confidence.

Start With Your Interests and Strengths

A job title alone can’t tell you whether a career will suit you. Begin by considering what energizes you, which assignments hold your attention and what problems you enjoy solving.

Ask yourself:

• Which subjects do I find most interesting?

• Do I prefer working with people, data, ideas or technology?

• What skills do professors, supervisors or classmates notice in me?

• What values do I want my work to reflect?

Your campus career center may offer interest assessments and individual counseling. Treat assessment results as conversation starters, not instructions. You can also ask professors, advisors and mentors to help you identify strengths that you may overlook.

Research Careers Before Choosing a Path

Once you have a few ideas, investigate what those careers actually require. The Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook lets you compare occupations by typical duties, education requirements, median pay and projected growth.

Look beyond salary. Consider daily responsibilities, work environment, location, schedule and advancement opportunities. Set up an informational interview to talk with someone who holds the role you want. A short conversation can reveal details that job descriptions rarely capture.

Career exploration may also change your mind. That doesn’t mean you failed—it means you gathered useful information before investing more time or money in a path that may not fit.

Build Career-Ready Skills

Employers often evaluate more than your major or GPA. The National Association of Colleges and Employers identifies eight career readiness competencies: career and self-development, communication, critical thinking, equity and inclusion, leadership, professionalism, teamwork and technology.

You can strengthen these skills in many settings. A class presentation develops communication. A campus organization can teach teamwork and leadership. A part-time job may demonstrate reliability, customer service skills and problem-solving.

Keep a running record of projects, accomplishments and results. Specific examples will make your resume stronger and help you answer behavioral interview questions later.

Gain Experience While You Study

Internships provide one route to experience, but they’re not the only option. Research projects, campus jobs, volunteer service, job shadowing and student leadership can also help you test career interests.

Focus on what you learn and contribute. If you organize an event, track attendance or money raised. If you manage social media for a student group, record changes in reach or engagement. Numbers help employers understand your impact.

Apply early because some internship programs recruit months before the start date. Review each opportunity carefully and ask your career center for help evaluating the employer, duties and compensation.

Use Your HBCU Network

HBCUs connect students with generations of alumni, faculty mentors and community leaders. Those relationships can become an important part of your career planning.

Attend alumni panels, employer visits, homecoming career events and professional conferences. Introduce yourself to speakers and follow up with a brief, personalized message. Ask for advice or insight rather than immediately requesting a job.

HBCU students enter a network with a powerful national impact. According to UNCF’s 2024 economic impact report, HBCUs generate $16.5 billion in economic impact and support more than 136,000 jobs.

Create a Resume and Online Presence

You don’t need to wait until senior year to prepare a resume. Start with your education, work experience, campus involvement, technical abilities and relevant projects. Adjust your resume for each opportunity by emphasizing the qualifications listed in the posting.

Build or update your LinkedIn profile with a clear photo, informative headline and concise summary. Follow organizations in your target field and engage thoughtfully with their posts. Make sure your public online activity supports the professional image you want employers to see.

Review your materials at least once each semester. Your career center can help you improve your resume, practice interviews and prepare for career fairs.

Set Small Career Goals

Large career decisions can feel overwhelming. Break them into manageable actions. You might schedule one career center appointment, contact one alumnus or apply for two internships this month.

Use a calendar or spreadsheet to track contacts, deadlines and follow-ups. Revisit your goals each semester as your interests and experience develop. A flexible plan gives you direction without locking you into one future.

Apply to UNCF scholarships

UNCF can also support your progress. The organization has helped more than 550,000 students earn college degrees and awards more than $62 million in scholarships each year. Explore UNCF scholarships, internships and fellowships. Make sure to review eligibility requirements and submit every required application component before the deadline.

Key Takeaways

• Student voices can influence federal education policy.

• Focus each call, email or letter on one clear request.

• Personal stories strengthen facts about HBCU funding and student aid.

• Consistent outreach helps build lasting relationships with lawmakers.

Make Your Voice Heard

Many college students already debate public policy in group chats, campus forums and comment sections. Direct some of that energy toward Washington, D.C., where lawmakers make decisions about financial aid, campus safety and college funding, often without student voices in the room.

You don’t need a political science degree or a trip to Capitol Hill to advocate effectively. A clear message and personal experience can make an impact. For HBCU students, advocacy also continues a proud tradition of challenging injustice, strengthening communities and helping shape a better future.

Why Your Voice Matters on Capitol Hill

Congressional offices log every phone call, email and letter that comes in, and staffers use those tallies to gauge how constituents feel about pending bills. A Government Facts guide to contacting Congress notes that a sudden spike in calls on one issue signals real urgency to an office, and that phone calls remain one of the most effective ways to get a staffer’s attention because someone has to stop and actually listen.

That matters even more for HBCU students. UNCF and its member college presidents serve as the primary voice for HBCUs before Congress and federal agencies on education policy and student aid, according to UNCF’s 2025 fact sheet. Your call or letter adds a personal, current voice to that ongoing advocacy effort.

Know the Stakes for HBCU Students

Numbers and your personal story help ground your advocacy in something concrete. HBCUs produce a disproportionate number of Black professionals—especially in STEM—and generate billions in economic impact to their surrounding communities, yet still face chronic underfunding.

Use these quick stats. to help make your case:

• HBCUs make up only 3% of four-year nonprofit colleges and universities nationwide, yet they enroll 10% of all Black students and confer roughly 19% of STEM bachelor’s degrees earned by Black graduates.

• HBCUs generate about $16.5 billion in annual economic impact and support roughly 136,000 jobs nationwide.

• HBCU endowments are significantly smaller than non-HBCUs. All HBCU endowments combined total around $4 billion, far less than ivy-league institutions—like Harvard’s endowment, which stands at $68 billion.

• HBCUs face chronic, systemic underfunding from federal and state governments. Public HBCUs face an average of more than $60 million in deferred maintenance costs per campus due to aging and deteriorating infrastructure.

When you talk to a congressional staffer about Pell Grants, Title III funding or HBCU capacity-building grants, these figures show why the ask matters far beyond your own campus.

Find and Identify Your Representatives

Skip the guesswork. Go to Congress.gov’s Member Lookup tool and enter your address to pull up your senators and House representatives. Save their D.C. office numbers in your phone now, before you need them.

You can also reach any office through the Capitol switchboard at 202-224-3121, which will connect you directly to a senator’s or representative’s staff, per the League of Conservation Voters’ calling guide. Every office has both a D.C. location and a district office back home, and district offices often respond faster since they’re built to handle direct constituent concerns.

Make Your Call Count

Phone anxiety is real, but a congressional call follows a simple script. Identify yourself as a constituent, name your college or university, state the specific issue or bill and make one clear ask. According to a practical guide from watch.vote, leading with your district identity and one concrete policy reference helps staff route and log your message faster than a long, unfocused story does.

A few pointers to make calls more effective:

• Name a specific bill or program: Rather than describing a general worry, name the bill or issue you’re calling about. “I’m calling about the FY2027 Title III HBCU funding line” lands better than “I care about education.”

• State one clear ask: Request a “yes” or “no” vote, a co-sponsorship or a public statement.

• Keep it short: Staffers field dozens of calls a day, so 60 to 90 seconds is plenty.

• Leave your name and address: This way, the call counts toward your specific district’s tally.

Write Letters and Emails That Get Read

Handwritten and typed letters still carry weight, particularly when they stay under one page and focus on a single issue, according to the ACLU’s guide to writing to your elected officials. Open with your purpose, cite the bill number and include a brief personal example, such as how a Pell Grant or HBCU capacity grant affects your own tuition bill.

Visit in Person in Washington, D.C. or at Home

Nothing replaces a face-to-face meeting, whether it happens on a Capitol Hill visit or at a district town hall over summer break. Many HBCUs and organizations, including UNCF, coordinate student advocacy days in Washington, D.C., pairing students with congressional meetings on issues such as Pell Grant expansion and HBCU infrastructure funding. Check with your school’s government relations office or UNCF directly to find out about upcoming advocacy you can get invovled in.

Show Up Consistently, Not Just During a Crisis

Advocacy works best as a habit, not a one-time event. Calling regularly, even without a single dramatic vote on the horizon, keeps your representative’s office aware of what matters to their constituents. Set a recurring reminder to check on a bill’s status, follow your representative’s committee assignments and reach out again when something shifts.

Your campus faces real, specific stakes in federal budget decisions and every congressional office wants to hear directly from the students those decisions affect. Grab your representative’s number, write down your one clear ask and make the call today.

The HBCU Radio Preservation Project—dedicated to honoring and preserving the vibrant history and cultural resource of historically Black college and university (HBCU) radio—is accepting applications for its 2027 HBCU Radio Preservation Project Fellow.

The project recruits recent HBCU graduates for a grad fellow and intern position every year. The one-year fellowship provides early career professionals with the opportunity to learn from experienced audio preservation and oral history practitioners. The fellow will assist with conducting oral history interviews and preservation of materials at radio stations on HBCU campuses. The fellow will also engage in public history programming and the annual HBCU Radio Preservation Symposium.

The application is due November 30. The fellowship begins January 2027. Submit application materials to pjefferscoly@wyso.org.

Apply to the fellowship

The HBCU Radio Preservation Project works with 30 HBCU radio stations and institutional archives at HBCUs to preserve the history and cultural legacy of these stations and foster an ethos of preservation. The project encourages others to replicate its model for all college radio stations, tribal stations, rural stations and other public and community stations.

HBCU radio stations, which have been on the air for more than 50 years, documented and continue to tell the rich history and diversity of the Black experience. This primary audio is at risk of being lost due to obsolete formats, deteriorating records and more. Current digital material is also at risk without proper preservation.

Currently, 29 HBCUs have active campus radio stations, five of which are UNCF-member institutions:

• Alabama A&M University: WJAB 90.9 FM

• Alabama State University: WVAS 90.7 FM

• Alcorn State University: WPRL 91.7 FM

• Clark Atlanta University: WCLK 91.9 FM

• Elizabeth City State University: WRVS 89.9 FM

• Fisk University: WFSK 88.1 FM

• Hampton University: WHOV 88.1 FM

• Howard University: WHUR 96.3 FM

• Jackson State University: WJSU 88.5 FM

• Mississippi Valley State University: WVSD 91.7 FM

• Norfolk State University: WNSB 91.1 FM

• North Carolina A&T State University: WNAA 90.1 FM

• North Carolina Central University: WNCU 90.7 FM

• Oakwood University: WJOU 90.1 FM

• Rust College: WURC 88.1 FM

• Savannah State University: WHCJ 90.3 FM

• Shaw University: WSHA 88.9 FM

• South Carolina State University: WSSB 90.3 FM

• Southern University: WSUB 106.1 FM

• Virginia State University: WVST 91.3 FM

• Winston-Salem State University: WSNC 90.5 FM

Shaw University (a UNCF-member institution) has the unique distinction of launching the first HBCU-owned radio station—WSHA 88.9 FM.

Support UNCF HBCUs

As UNCF-member institution Edward Waters University celebrates its 160th anniversary, it announced a landmark $33 million in campus capital investments being made through 2028—the most significant investment in the university’s modern history.

“In the year we celebrate 160 years as Florida’s first HBCU, we are building for the next 160,” said A. Zachary Faison, Jr., Ed.D., J.D., president and CEO, Edward Waters University. “Our students deserve facilities that match the excellence of their aspirations, and that is exactly what this investment delivers.”

The major infrastructure improvements include:

• A new 200-bed student residence hall.

• The university’s first on-campus track and field facility.

• $9 million allocated to modernizing academics and laboratories, student services, historic preservation and upgrades to safety and security infrastructure.

The residence hall and track will be funded through a $25 million capital investment from the U.S. Department of Education’s Historically Black College and University Capital Financing Program. Congress created the program in 1992 because HBCUs faced obstacles to securing capital for campus projects, including discrimination in the bond market.

This will be the first new student housing constructed on campus since 1982, and the largest residential facility.

“I graduated from Edward Waters in 1984, and was a nineteen-year-old sophomore when the last new residence hall opened on this campus,” said Samuel Newby, former president, Jacksonville City Council, and president, Edward Waters University Alumni Leadership Council. “I’m 64-years-old now and to know that this next generation of students will step into a facility built for this century, on the campus that shaped all of us, is a source of enormous pride for me and our whole alumni family.”

The new track and field facility, the university’s first on-campus track, will support the University’s NCAA Division II student athletes and serve the broader community. The City of Jacksonville is providing $2 million to help build it.

Additional infrastructure improvements will be made to Centennial Hall, the oldest building on campus, which houses the university’s library, as well as the second oldest building, the Lee Cousins Administration Building. Other projects include: a new innovation lab being built in Centennial Hall; a chemistry lab being renovated in the Hatcher Stewart Science and Mathematics Building; a new campus student welcome center; enhancements to Milne Auditorium; and upgrades to campus-wide safety, security, resiliency and technology.

Edward Waters University has been experiencing momentous growth and stability. The university has expanded its academic offerings from 8 to 17 degree programs. Since 2018, it has more than tripled its endowment. In 2025, Edward Waters University was ranked 25th in the nation for social mobility by U.S. News & World Report. Fall 2026 enrollment reached the highest level in more than 20 years, with enrollment growing nearly 40% since 2019—making Edward Waters University one of the fastest growing private universities in the region. In May 2026, the university graduated the largest class in its 160-year history. And in August, Edward Waters University was one 12 UNCF-member institutions selected to receive a $1 million endowment gift from the Dimon Foundation.

“Students judge a university by what they see when they walk onto campus,” Faison said. “From our laboratories to our historic buildings to the systems that keep our students safe, these improvements ensure that every corner of this campus reflects who we are and where we are going.”

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Students are back on campus and settling into the rhythm of the fall semester, which also means schools are putting finishing touches on their homecoming plans. Each one of our institutions carries its own storied traditions, many stretching back more than a century.

Over the years, homecoming has expanded well beyond athletics to a full weekend of pageantry, arts and culture and reunion. I’ve watched this unfold my entire life and certainly over the last 30 years as a college president and during my time as CEO of UNCF. And I’ve come to understand homecoming is something more than nostalgia. It is, for most HBCUs, the single most important fundraising catalyst for the year.

Support HBCU students

Alumni issue “class challenges” to their fellow graduates. Philanthropic partners time their major gifts to the moment. Thousands of alumni inject capital directly into their school by prioritizing direct campus fundraising campaigns, participating in matching gifts and purchasing high-dollar university vendor spots and tailgating passes, which can range from $400 to more than $750 a space.

These collective efforts regularly yield impressive results. It is common for top-performing institutions to break fundraising records during homecoming week. Clark Atlanta University secured more than $1.5 million in donor gifts during its first post-pandemic in-person homecoming. The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) received a record $5 million gift from the Wingate Foundation during its homecoming week last year.

This year, fundraising around homecoming is even more critical.

HBCUs are in the midst of a renaissance. They have never been more vital, visible or in greater demand.

HBCUs serve as economic engines for their surrounding communities, contributing $16.5 billion in total economic impact each year. They are hubs for research and innovation, and they remain, as they have always been, incubators of distinguished writers, artists and performers who shape this country’s culture.

They are also magnets for promising scholars. A growing number of institutions are experiencing their highest enrollment in history. Students continue to be drawn to HBCUs to pursue academic excellence in culturally enriched environments and safe havens.

Philanthropic leaders have taken notice, too. Major donors like MacKenzie Scott have made historic gifts to HBCUs, a powerful endorsement of their academic excellence and track record as a pathway to greater social mobility for graduates.

That’s the good news.

Now, the challenge: this renaissance is putting enormous pressure on the infrastructure and operating budgets of HBCUs. Too many of our institutions are struggling with a shortage of student housing and adequate classroom space and are educating in research labs that have not kept pace with advances in technology.

The maintenance of buildings, dorms and facilities has also fallen behind. A UNCF report revealed nearly two-thirds of HBCUs surveyed indicated they had more than $5 million in deferred maintenance. According to the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO), public HBCUs, on average, have total deferred maintenance of more than $60 million. Addressing this shortfall is more important today than ever.

HBCUs must expand their capacity to meet evolving workforce needs. A changing economy, projected talent shortages and AI-driven disruption demand graduates with new skills. Despite generations of underfunding, HBCUs have consistently delivered results and are well positioned to prepare the next generation of leaders across every sector.

The recent UNCF report, Still Punching Above Their Weight, reinforces the effectiveness of HBCUs. In 2022, HBCUs accounted for 16% of STEM degrees conferred to Black graduates, including 20% of Black women.

If America is serious about meeting its future challenges, it must ensure HBCUs have the financial strength and stability to serve students, uplift communities and advance the nation.

So, this fall, I’m asking our alumni to do more than show up on campus. I am challenging our alumni to step up and build on the tradition of giving that has always made us strong.

Recent research by the TIAA Institute revealed HBCU alumni donor participation to be 5%—matching the broader U.S. higher education average. Some HBCUs, such as Bennett College, Claflin University, Spelman College and Tuskegee University, have alumni who give at rates above 25%.

However, the same research found that 95% of HBCU endowment funds are designated for student aid, compared with 40% nationally. This pattern creates a persistent shortfall in the resources that can be directed to other pressing needs—the buildings, the labs, the faculty and the future.

Leveling the playing field will require more than alumni generosity alone. It will take greater support from the federal government, corporations and philanthropists. And it will take long-term strategies to build assets and wealth.

UNCF has prioritized building endowments that can produce reliable revenue streams for institutions for generations to come—an innovative approach to put HBCUs on better footing.

Alumni, you don’t have to wait on any of this to act—you can take matters into your own hands by answering the call. This year, let’s celebrate homecoming by doubling our giving. Challenge your classmates to match you. And get ready to demonstrate your commitment at tailgates.

These are challenging times in higher education, especially for HBCUs. Such moments call for serious people, particularly HBCU alumni, to take serious action. The need will persist beyond the homecoming weekend, so alumni should also consider carrying this forward as a yearlong effort, with homecoming as the kickoff.

I have spent my career watching HBCUs solidify their place as a consistent bright spot in American higher education, punching well above their weight. Investing in them is investing in excellence, opportunity and the American dream. The question, as always, is whether we will match our institutions’ effort with our own. I believe we will.

Read article in The HBCU Times

A guest post from Dr. Michael L. Lomax, president and CEO, UNCF, the nation’s leading private provider of scholarships to college students and a major advocate for HBCUs and higher education. This article was originally published in The HBCU Times.

Key Takeaways

• Campus organizations help students develop communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills.

• HBCU student organizations preserve traditions while preparing new leaders.

• Leadership roles can strengthen resumes and provide useful interview examples.

• Students do not need an official position to start leading.

College leadership does not always begin with a title. Sometimes it starts when you volunteer to organize an event, share an idea during a meeting or help a classmate feel welcome.

Campus organizations give students a place to practice leadership in real situations. Clubs, student government associations, service groups, Greek-letter organizations and professional societies all create opportunities to build confidence and make a difference. For students at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), these experiences also connect personal growth with a powerful tradition of service, achievement and community leadership.

Campus Involvement Turns Ideas Into Experience

A classroom can teach you how organizations work. A campus club lets you put those lessons into practice.

Imagine that your organization wants to host a career panel. Someone must reserve a room, create a budget, invite speakers, promote the event and prepare for last-minute changes. Completing those tasks requires planning and accountability. Working with other students also teaches you how to listen, delegate and adjust when people approach a problem differently.

Mistakes become part of the learning process. A small turnout may teach you to promote the next event earlier. A budget problem may encourage you to track expenses more carefully. Campus leadership offers room to learn, improve and try again.

Student Organizations Develop Career-Ready Skills

Employers want more than a degree. They also want candidates who can communicate clearly, collaborate with others and solve problems.

The National Association of Colleges and Employers identifies eight career-readiness competencies, including communication, teamwork, leadership and critical thinking. Campus organizations give you practical ways to develop and demonstrate those abilities.

Serving as treasurer can build financial management skills. Leading a volunteer project can strengthen organization and decision-making. Managing social media can develop digital communication and brand strategy experience. Even participating consistently shows commitment.

Track your contributions as you gain experience. Instead of simply listing a club on your resume, describe what you accomplished. You might note that you coordinated five volunteers, increased event attendance or secured funding for a new program. Specific results help employers understand what you can do.

HBCUs Create Distinctive Leadership Opportunities

Leadership holds special meaning across HBCU campuses. Student organizations often carry forward traditions of civic engagement, academic excellence and collective advancement. Marching bands, campus newspapers, debate teams, student government associations and National Pan-Hellenic Council organizations can help students find their voices while serving a larger community.

HBCUs make up a small share of American colleges and universities, yet produce a significant portion of Black graduates. According to UNCF research on the HBCU Effect, HBCUs award 13% of bachelor’s degrees and 24% of STEM degrees earned by Black students. HBCU alumni place a high value in their institutional networks.

Campus organizations help students begin building those networks before graduation. A faculty advisor may become a mentor. A peer may recommend an internship. An alumnus may offer career guidance. Relationships formed through shared service and campus traditions can continue long after commencement.

Leadership Can Begin Without a Title

You don’t need to become president to grow as a leader. Reliable members often make some of the greatest contributions.

You can take initiative by welcoming new students, volunteering for a committee or suggesting a solution to a recurring problem. You can also support leadership by keeping commitments and helping others succeed. Effective leaders do not simply direct people. They build trust and move a group toward a shared goal.

Start with an organization that matches your interests, values or career plans. Attend a few meetings before committing. Ask members about the time involved and look for a role that fits your schedule. One meaningful experience will serve you better than several activities you pay little attention to.

UNCF Helps Students Expand Their Opportunities

Leadership development also depends on access to education, professional networks and career opportunities. UNCF supports more than 50,000 students and awards more than $62 million in scholarships each year. Its scholarships, internships and academic programs help students continue their education and prepare for life after college.

UNCF also works with HBCUs through initiatives that strengthen institutions and improve student outcomes. Its Career Pathways Initiative, for example, helps participating HBCUs and predominantly Black institutions connect graduates with meaningful careers in their chosen fields.

Explore your campus involvement fair, student activities office and UNCF opportunities. The meeting you attend today could lead to a new skill, a trusted mentor or your first chance to lead.

Support HBCU students

Tuskegee University, a UNCF-member institution, was named a Distinguished Military College (DMC) by the Department of War. Tuskegee is one of five institutions—and the only historically Black college and university (HBCU)—to receive the designation.

The distinction honors more than a century of service to the United States. Tuskegee has a storied history of military involvement, including training the country’s first Black military pilots, the Tuskegee Airmen, during World War II. Their service and achievements helped advance racial integration throughout the Armed Forces.

The DMC designation is reserved for institutions recognized for excellence in military leadership development, officer production, academic achievement and service to the nation. Tuskegee is among a select group of colleges and universities whose military programs have demonstrated exceptional contributions to the development of future military and civilian leaders.

Currently, 197 students are training in Tuskegee’s ROTC program in five branches of the U.S. Armed Services.

“Tuskegee University is deeply honored and grateful for its designation as a Distinguished Military College by the Department of War and the Secretary of War,” said Dr. Mark A. Brown, president and CEO, Tuskegee University, who is a 1986 Tuskegee graduate and an Air Force ROTC commissionee. “This recognition affirms more than a century of service to our nation and charts an exciting path toward the continued growth of a full Corps of Cadets at Tuskegee University. It reflects our enduring commitment to leadership, excellence and national service.”

“This story is deeply personal for me,” said Dr. Brown, who served for more than 32 years in the U.S. Air Force, reaching the rank of Major General before returning to lead at his alma mater. “Tuskegee University provided the foundation that launched my military career and shaped my life. I know firsthand the transformative power of leadership education and military service. This designation will allow us to expand those opportunities for future generations of students.”

Tuskegee views this as the recognition of a remarkable legacy and a call to continue preparing leaders who are ready to meet the challenges of an increasingly complex world. The distinction will strengthen student recruitment efforts, attract high-achieving young men and women committed to leadership and public service, create new research partnerships and expand scholarship opportunities.

“Our military heritage rests upon the shoulders of giants,” Dr. Brown said. “Long before opportunity was guaranteed, Tuskegee fought for the right to serve. Our graduates went on to defend this nation in every major conflict of the modern era, proving that excellence, leadership and patriotism know no boundaries.”

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Amid the launch of the “A Different World” sequel, and the announcement of a forthcoming Season 2, a new podcast called “A Different World View” premieres today.

“A Different World View”, produced by iHeartMedia and Charlamagne tha God’s Black Effect Podcast Network, will be hosted by Kadeem Hardison (Dwayne Wayne) and Darryl M. Bell (Ron Johnson, Jr.). Hardison and Bell, who reprise their roles in the Netflix sequel, will rewatch the original series episode by episode, share behind-the-scenes stories and feature conversations with both the original and new casts.

New episodes will be released on Thursdays on the iHeartRadio app and other podcast streaming platforms.

“I am beyond excited to finally launch the ‘A Different World View with Darryl and Kadeem’ podcast,” Bell said in a press release. “Kadeem and I have only wanted to do this for over 25 years, and the time is now! I also could not be happier or think of better partners than Charlamagne tha God, his team at The Black Effect and iHeartMedia.”

“‘A Different World’ had an undeniable impact on Black culture, and Kadeem and Darryl are such an important part of that legacy,” said Dollie S. Bishop, president, Black Effect Podcast Network. “We’re excited to give them a platform to bring their friendship and comedy to listeners everywhere, sharing stories fans have never heard and celebrating the series with the generations who grew up with it and those who might just be discovering it today.”

Listen to a preview

Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) announced a $97.1 million award in federal funding through the Department of Defense to support science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) research programs and capabilities at 10 historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and minority-serving institutions (MSIs).

Nearly $10 million in federal funding will be allocated to UNCF-member institution Clark Atlanta University, in Atlanta, GA, Senator Warnock’s home state. Senator Warnock himself is a proud graduate of Morehouse College (another UNCF-member institution).

“These institutions serve as stewards of academic excellence and innovation, and this federal investment, specifically in STEM programs, honors that legacy of greatness and expands opportunity for the next generation of scientists,” said Senator Warnock. “For too long, HBCUs have gone unrecognized for their contributions to our nation’s leading STEM industry.”

The HBCUs receiving this federal grant funding are below:

• Clark Atlanta University

• Delaware State University

• University of the District of Columbia

• Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU)

• Morgan State University

• Jackson State University

• Fayetteville State University

• North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (NC A&T)

• Prairie View Agricultural and Mechanical University (Prairie View A&M)

• Texas Southern University

Senator Warnock, a longtime champion of America’s HBCUs, secured this latest batch of congressionally directed funding through the Department of Defense’s HBCU/MSI Research and Education Program. The grant supports 10 HBCUs as they seek to achieve Research One (R1) status—the highest research activity classification among colleges and universities in the U.S.

This effort builds on Senator Warnock’s bipartisan HBCU Research Capacity Act, which is working to set up a federally-coordinated website that compiles information about HBCU-eligible STEM research and development funding opportunities.

Since his Senate term began in 2022, Senator Warnock has secured more than $17 billion for HBCU campuses, including nearly $275 million for HBCUs in Georgia.

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Key Takeaways

• Persistent exhaustion, brain fog, irritability and procrastination may signal student burnout.

• Early support can protect your mental health and academic performance.

• Clear boundaries, consistent rest and a manageable schedule can aid recovery.

• Professors, advisers, counselors, tutors and trusted peers can help.

• Asking for help reflects self-awareness, not a lack of ambition.

Midterm exams, complex group projects and late-night study sessions regularly push college students to their physical and emotional limits. While ambition drives academic success, relentless pressure often leads directly to academic burnout.

You may tell yourself that exhaustion simply comes with pursuing a degree. Yet when stress never lets up, it makes it harder to learn, stay motivated and perform well academically. According to research from the American Psychological Association, over 60% of college students experience at least one mental health challenge during their undergraduate journey.

Recognizing burnout early protects your mental health and safeguards your grade point average before academic performance plummets. Burnout doesn’t mean you lack discipline or ambition. It usually develops after prolonged academic stress drains your physical, mental and emotional energy. Recognizing the warning signs early can help you protect both your well-being and your grades.

Warning Signs of Academic Burnout

Burnout can affect your body, emotions and behavior. Recognizing these warning signs early can help protect your grades.

• Physical Exhaustion and Brain Fog: Persistent fatigue, headaches, muscle tension, appetite changes and difficulty concentrating may signal burnout. Even familiar reading assignments can start to feel overwhelming.

• Emotional Detachment and Cynicism: Burnout can replace enthusiasm with apathy, frustration or irritability. You may lose interest in your major, assignments or career goals.

• Behavioral Changes and Procrastination: Overwhelm can lead to chronic procrastination, skipped classes, missed deadlines and withdrawal from campus activities. These changes may show that academic demands have exceeded your current capacity.

5 Proactive Strategies to Overcome Burnout

Reversing burnout requires deliberate action, lifestyle adjustments and structured support. Implement these practical strategies to restore personal balance and protect your academic standing.

1. Establish Firm Academic Boundaries

Set explicit working hours for studying and honor them consistently every day. Stop reviewing course notes, checking class portals or answering group chat messages after a specific hour each evening. Dividing large term papers or exam preparation into manageable micro-tasks prevents mental paralysis and restores momentum.

2. Leverage Campus and Community Resources

Reach out to campus counseling centers, academic advising offices and peer mentorship networks. If you attend an HBCU, explore specialized mental health workshops supported by UNCF and campus partners. Asking for assistance early demonstrates self-awareness and protects your GPA.

3. Normalize Rest Without Guilt

Quality rest directly fuels cognitive performance and memory consolidation. Integrate active recovery—such as physical exercise, creative hobbies, outdoor walks and structured downtime—into your weekly schedule. Treat rest as a mandatory component of your study schedule rather than a luxury reward for completing assignments.

4. Build a Support Network

Share your daily challenges with trusted classmates, family members or close friends. Open dialogue breaks isolation and offers fresh perspective on academic stress. Surrounding yourself with empathetic peers creates an accountability safety net during intense exam weeks.

5. Practice Mindful Time Allocation

Audit your weekly commitments to identify nonessential tasks that drain your energy. Reduce involvement in non-mandatory extracurricular activities when coursework demands are at their peak. Streamlining your schedule creates crucial breathing room for rest and self-care.

Understand Burnout in the HBCU Experience

Historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) often create powerful communities rooted in belonging, cultural identity and shared achievement. Research from UNCF and the Healthy Minds Network found that 83% of HBCU students felt part of their campus community, compared with 73% of students nationally.

Financial strain, family responsibilities and pressure to succeed can make it tempting to push through exhaustion silently. Reaching out honors your goals. It doesn’t diminish them.

Act Before Your Grades Begin to Slip

Start with one honest assessment: What currently drains your energy, and what can you change? Then take practical steps:

• Contact your professor before missed work accumulates.

• Meet with an academic adviser to review your workload.

• Find support through tutoring, visiting the writing center and practicing time-management skills.

• Don’t forgo sleep, meals, movement and connection.

• Visit your campus counseling or health center.

Physical activity can support recovery. The federal Move Your Way initiative reports that movement can reduce stress, improve sleep and sharpen focus. Even a short walk across campus can provide a restorative break.

UNCF also works to connect students with scholarships, internships and professional development opportunities that may ease financial pressure and strengthen academic progress.

You don’t have to wait for a failing grade or personal crisis to ask for help. When you recognize burnout early, you give yourself more options, more support and a better chance to enjoy the education you have worked hard to pursue.

Key Takeaways

• Compare net price, not the largest award.

• Prioritize grants and scholarships over loans.

• Check whether aid renews every year.

• Review loan terms before accepting funds.

• Explore HBCU and UNCF scholarships.

• Ask about financial aid appeals.

Opening financial aid offers can bring pride, excitement and anxiety. After months of applications and late-night study sessions, families must compare financial aid packages that often look like complex math equations.

Because colleges format offers differently, the largest award may not always provide the best value. A careful review can help you compare net costs, separate free aid from loans and explore scholarships through UNCF.

Apply to UNCF scholarships

Key Terms Every Parent Must Know

Financial aid offers generally divide funding into gift aid and self-help aid. Gift aid includes grants and scholarships that students typically do not repay, making it the most valuable part of a package.

Self-help aid includes work-study earnings and loans. Students receive work-study wages through part-time employment, while student and Parent PLUS loans require repayment with interest. Families should also review the Student Aid Index (SAI). Colleges use a lower SAI to identify greater financial need and determine aid eligibility.

Calculate the Real Cost of Attendance

Colleges calculate a total Cost of Attendance (COA) for each academic year. Cost of Attendance includes direct costs such as tuition, mandatory fees, housing and food. The calculation also estimates indirect costs such as textbooks, supplies, personal expenses and transportation.

Evaluating the true price tag requires calculating the net price rather than looking at the sticker price alone. Parents can calculate net price using a simple formula:

Comparing net price across schools gives you an accurate side-by-side comparison. High sticker prices often melt away when generous aid packages come into play. Parents can use the official Federal Student Aid platform to estimate aid eligibility and test different financial scenarios. Online tools like the College Board Net Price Calculator also help families predict expenses before award letters arrive.

Look Beyond the First Year

An affordable freshman year does not guarantee an affordable college education. Ask each financial aid office:

• Will the college renew every grant and scholarship?

• Does renewal require a certain GPA, major or enrollment level?

• Will the award remain the same if tuition increases?

• Does the package include a one-time scholarship?

• How might living off-campus affect aid?

• Does the college typically provide comparable aid after freshman year?

Multiply the expected annual net price by the number of years the program usually takes to complete. Graduation rates also matter because an additional semester or year can add up to tuition, living expenses and lost earnings.

Evaluate Financial Aid Offers at HBCUs

Historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) deliver exceptional academic quality and supportive community, often at a lower average tuition rate than comparable institutions. Navigating financial aid at HBCUs requires paying close attention to institutional aid funding and external scholarship opportunities.

View UNCF's member HBCUs

Many HBCUs stretch institutional grant aid across large student bodies. Families considering HBCUs should look closely at how grant aid applies across all four years. Asking financial aid officers whether merit scholarships renew automatically helps families plan long-term budgets.

External support plays a vital role for students attending HBCUs and other higher education institutions. UNCF awards more than $62 million in scholarships annually to students at 600 colleges and universities, including a core network of 36 private member HBCUs. UNCF manages over 400 scholarship, internship and fellowship programs that help bridge financial gaps for students and provide professional development opportunities. Applying for UNCF scholarships and programs provides vital gift aid that directly reduces out-of-pocket tuition expenses.

Follow an Action Checklist to Compare Offers

Organizing options in a structured spreadsheet simplifies decisions. Follow these straightforward steps:

1. List total direct costs: Write down tuition, fees and room and board for each school.

2. Subtract gift aid: Deduct all non-repayable grants and scholarships from the direct costs.

3. Identify net out-of-pocket costs: Calculate the remaining balance that your family must pay through savings, income or loans.

4. Examine loan details: Distinguish between Subsidized Direct Loans, Unsubsidized Direct Loans and Parent PLUS Loans. Subsidized loans do not accrue interest while students are in school, whereas unsubsidized loans begin accruing interest immediately.

5. Appeal for additional aid: Reach out to college financial aid offices if your family experienced job loss, medical expenses or emergency changes in household income.

Final Steps for Families

Choosing a college balances academic fit, social environment and family budget. Thoroughly evaluating financial aid offers ensures your child enters college with a strong financial footing. Start comparing your financial aid letters today, gather your questions and contact campus financial aid counselors to secure the best future for your student.

“UNCF has absolutely changed my life,” said Hanifah Mohammed, a rising sophomore at UNCF-member institution Fisk University.

Mohammed is a recipient of the Vertus Hardiman Endowed Scholarship, administered by UNCF, which provided her with critical support that helped ease the financial pressures of college and allowed her to focus more fully on academics. She dreamed of being able to concentrate on succeeding in the classroom without being weighed down by financial concerns; the Vertus Hardiman Endowed Scholarship made that possible.

Apply to UNCF scholarships

This support—financial and beyond—gave Mohammed greater peace of mind as she adjusted to the demands of college. Her first semester was stressful, but it also taught her valuable lessons about balancing academics and maintaining strong relationships with her peers. She said having friends who supported one another made the difficult moments more manageable and reinforced the importance of community.

Mohammed’s focus paid off—she completed her first semester with a 4.0 GPA, an accomplishment she describes as both challenging and rewarding. “My most memorable experience was surviving my first final’s season,” she shared.

Fisk felt like the right college for Mohammed—she wanted to attend an HBCU and was drawn to Fisk’s close-knit culture. She particularly appreciated the university’s tradition of referring to its community as the “Fisk Family.”

Mohammed’s career aspirations are also influenced by her own family. Her mother attended law school and her late father was an entrepreneur. Inspired by both parents, Mohammed hopes to create a future that combines her interests in business, leadership and law. She is majoring in business administration and plans to attend law school after graduation. Her academic interests include pre-law, business law and business ethics, fields that allow her to explore the connection between business and the legal system.

She expects to graduate in May 2029.

Mohammed encourages prospective college students to pursue every opportunity for financial assistance. Her advice is simple: Apply for every scholarship that fits and make each application personal. “Make sure you center your personal story in all your applications,” she said. “Always persevere.”

Mohammed’s experience demonstrates how scholarship support can provide more than just financial assistance. For students navigating the transition to college, UNCF support creates an opportunity to focus on academics, build relationships and pursue ambitious goals.

Support students like Hanifah Mohammed

Her message for donors is clear. She wants them to understand the lasting impact of their generosity. “I would say every generous contribution and action is literally going to change somebody’s life in some way,” she said.

With the support of UNCF, Mohammed is continuing to build the foundation for a future that combines her passion for business and her goal of pursuing law—one semester, one achievement and one opportunity at a time.