This week’s Alumni Spotlight is Karimatu Kargbo! She is a student at Howard University pursuing a major in political science and minor in international affairs. We asked all about her HBCU experience and what it is like to be a political science major during election season in our newest spotlight.
Why did you choose to return to PeerForward to serve as an Alumni?
I came back to PeerForward because when I was a Peer Leader, PeerForward set me up for success. I wanted to give back to my community by providing the same experience. I feel like hearing from people close in age to you that were in your position just a few years ago is really valuable.
What has been the best part of attending Howard University thus far?
The best part of attending Howard University is the community. Being a Howard student MEANS something. A lot of the networking opportunities that we get from being at the Mecca, are right in DC.
For me, being a poli-sci major, the amount of connections I’ve made, the number of events I’ve attended, and the politicians and people I’ve been able to meet through the school has been invaluable. I wouldn’t be able to get this at any other college.
Who have you met or been able to network with in your Howard experience that really impressed you or helped you see how valuable your connections will be?
One of my professors also works for a lobbying firm. He opened an opportunity for me to attend an event for a company that works in political strategy. While there, I was able to hear from leaders at Google and the Congressional Black Caucus. In effect, I feel like my professor opened this door for me and my peers by helping us meet people in the field. I even had the opportunity to apply for an internship that I wouldn’t have gotten anywhere else.
What do you enjoy the most about being a poli-sci major?
I feel like getting people involved in politics, especially being that it’s an election year, has been so exciting. As a result, I’ve been able to work with the Alsobrooks campaign for Senate in Maryland.
Now, that’s been exciting. Going to all those events, helping people learn about voting, and even talking to my friends who don’t really know what’s going on, I feel like I’m able to help them understand. I love being able to open that door and bridge the gap for people who don’t really care for it and get them to at least entertain it.
One of the 2024 presidential candidates, Kamala Harris, attended your university. Can you describe what the energy was like on campus during election season?
The energy was exciting. Everybody felt like, “wow, if one of our alumni can do this, then what can we do?” All the doors are open for us. The possibilities are endless.
It also put the spotlight on Howard. We’re already great students, but this election has given us an opportunity to show on the national stage just how great Howard really is. Now people paying attention to HBCUs. I feel like we’re trying to advocate for all HBCU students as well.
What advice would you give to Peer Leaders who want to attend an HBCU (Historically Black College/University)?
Attending an HBCU is an amazing opportunity that, as a Black student, you cannot get anywhere else. The community, the culture, the connection, and the network that you build at your HBCU is unique.
There aren’t many times in your life that you’re going to be able to be in a space filled with like-minded, intelligent, professional Black people. I feel like HBCUs provides that experience. Your professors are Black, your peers are Black, your advisors are Black and you’re in a community, living together, building these relationships.
If that’s an experience you’re looking for, apply to HBCUs, but make sure to do your research. Every school is different, but if you want that community, an HBCU is for you.
Some responses have been edited for length and clarity.
