Here at Delaware State University, students with determination and influential capabilities are able to exercise their skills through various leadership positions. Examples of this are shown in Student leaders, as they take on the responsibility to inspire others while representing their school through acts of  hard work and dedication. They are seen and known as public figures on campus and demonstrate how to be a successful student. Aaliyah Robinson, DSU’s Miss Freshman is a prime example of a student leader. Although she has just recently started her college experience at DSU, she has already begun to make her mark! 

Below is the text of my interview with Miss Aaliyah Robinson: 

Q-  where were you born and what was your upbringing like? Who has been the greatest influence in your life that has impacted the woman you are today?What about family?

A- I was born in Salem, New Jersey, but I moved to another part of New Jersey my third grade year. My upbringing was pretty good; I grew up in a nice suburban town and I had both parents taking care of me, so I had everything I needed. The greatest impact in my life would be my Nanny; she is my great great grandma. If I ever needed any advice to uplift me or needed some motivation I would go to her. She has taught me a lot of things that are helping me grow  into adulthood. My family in general, like my mom, I know I can  count on her for anything. I know that my family in general will always be there for me no matter what.

Q- Can you tell us about your education history and what your goals or life ambition was when you were a student in high school/college? 

A- My educational history has been good, I am an A and B student. I have attended academic banquets as well for my grades by being on the president’s list. I also attended a colonial conference event for receiving  an award in sportsmanship out of my whole high  school. I have always been involved in school and plan to continue that here at DSU by joining organizations and serving as Miss Freshman. So far I have earned 10 credits over the summer and passed the academy with a 3.7 GPA.  

Q- Can you tell us about your job/education experience prior to what you’re doing now? What informed your decision on doing what you’re doing now? 

A- I worked at Walmart as a cashier, which taught me communications skills. Through this I can use my communication skills to serve as Miss Freshman. 

Q- is this where you thought you’d be five years ago? What informed your decision doing what you’re doing now?

A- no not really, five years ago I was thinking about where I wanted to be in life. I knew I wanted to be something within the science field, but thinking about college and becoming Miss Freshman was never thought about. I was a student leader in my high school 

Q- What are your plans for the future?

A- My plans for the future is to be successful within my major, which is biological science. I would like to study and create vaccines such as the one against Covid.

Q- What kind of advice would you offer a student, who is undecided on his or her career path?

A- I would say, weigh your options, go for a job that you are passionate about. Majoring in something that you will be passionate about instead of picking something easy.

Q- How would you describe the state of higher education in America today? 

A- Our state of our education relies on getting a higher education, and graduating. 

Q- Have you ever traveled out of the United states? 

A- No I haven’t. 

Q- What does the future hold for America? 

A- I think America has a bright future; we have a decent amount of bright students and individuals to make America’s future bright. 

Q- Are you interested in politics? If no, why not? What is your take on the state of politics and the future of American democracy?

A- No, I never really got into politics, so I don’t have a comment for that. 

Q- How are you responding to the outbreak of the Covid-19  virus? How did you handle the stay-at-home order?  What about virtual learning? What keeps you going through these trying times? How can the government better handle the situation? 

A- I handled the stay-at-home order pretty well; I didn’t go anywhere except work and I stayed healthy throughout the whole pandemic. Personally, virtual learning isn’t for me because I’m a visual learner, and I feel like talking to a screen isn’t giving me the learning experience I need. Something that keeps me going through these trying times is staying positive and having motivation. When it comes to the government, they could have handled the situation better. I feel like the government forcing people to get the vaccine isn’t helping.

Q-  what are your hobbies or extracurricular activities? How would you describe your philosophy of life? What principles get you grounded and moving forward? 

A- I like to bake and listen to music. I see life as good and the principles that keep me moving is to stay motivated and never give up. 

Inspiring quote: “ success is liking yourself ,liking what you do, and how you do it.” -Maya Angelou 

Q- How would you describe yourself? 

A-   I am determined, motivated, and passionate.  

Aaliyah is excited to showcase her leadership skills this academic school year as she serves as Miss Freshman. She is determined to inspire others and motivated to further her leadership positions with her college career. This is only the beginning for Aaliyah Robinson and her future looks bright!