Trinity Brooks
Delaware State University is a school that helps mold its students into the people they want to be with the career of their dreams. They offer jobs, resources, and positions of leadership that can help you gain experience for the real world we as young adults are about to enter. Lawrence Taylor is a 21-year-old senior here at Delaware State University majoring in Engineering Physics. He’s from PG County, Maryland. Lawrence holds the position of Senior Resident Assistant at the University Courtyard Apartments. He also holds membership in campus organizations like Men of Color Alliance, Brothers In Power, DSU Diehard, Honors Program, Anime Club, and Reformed University Fellowship.
Below is the text of the interview I had with Lawrence Taylor:
Q- Where were you born and what was your upbringing like?
A- I was born in Prince George’s County, Maryland. I lived in a two-parent household with two other sisters. My parents raised me on Christian values and prioritized teaching empathy and compassion.
Q- Who has been the greatest influence in your life that has impacted the man you are today?
A- My Grandfather. Growing up I watched him lead and teach not only my family but also people in our community. Being that he was also my pastor, he set the standard of what it means to be an upstanding Christian man.
Q- What was the most memorable point being an SRA?
A- My most memorable point in being an SRA, has been move-in day. I had to use my training that day to work with my staff, coworkers, and residents.
Q- What informed your decision on doing what you’re doing now?
A- Being a SRA had all of the benefits of being an RA and higher pay. I’m also able to fine-tune my leadership and problem-solving skills.
Q- What are your plans for the future?
A- After graduation I plan to get my degree in optical engineering or a related field.
Q- What kind of advice would you offer a student, who is undecided on his or her career path?
A- My advice would be to try out different careers. Even if you choose one that doesn’t fit you at first, you’ll be able to narrow your options down to a career path that you do like.
Q- How would you describe the state of higher education in America today?
A- I think the quality of higher education in America will always depend on an individual socioeconomic class. The more money and resources you have the better your education will be.
Q- How are you responding to online teaching and learning? Which is better: face-to-face or virtual learning and why?
A- For me online learning is more convenient and more conductive for balancing my other responsibilities.
Q- Have you ever traveled outside of the United States? Where, and how does life outside compare to that in the US?
A- No I haven’t
Q- Are you interested in politics? If not, why not? What is your take on the state of politics and the future of the American democracy?
A- Yes, I’m interested in politics. I think that currently, social media has severely divided our country politically.
Q- What does the future hold for America?
A– I think the future for America is bright. The technological advances that we will continue to make will help our general population.
Q- What are your hobbies or extracurricular activities?
A- I like to watch TV and movies in my free time.
Q- How would you describe your philosophy of life? That is, how do you see this life and what principles get you grounded and moving forward?
A- Treat people the way you want to be treated!
Q- Let us end this interview with a memorable quote from you. How would you describe yourself to the world? Complete the sentence: I am…
A- I am a young black male student leader!
Lawrence Taylor is a Senior who is making his mark at Delaware State University. He talks about how taking his position as Senior Resident Assistant allows him to get leadership experience as well as work on his problem-solving skills. He’s a student who wants to give back to the community that poured into who he is today. He strives to treat others with respect and always puts his best foot forward!