Campus Life | April 29th, 2025

Sincerely, a Rattler

By: Stephanie Pierre | Staff Writer

As the year ends, new beginnings emerge. Four students at different points in their college journey reflect on their dreams and hopes for the future as a Rattler. Whether they have just started college or are about to walk across that stage of black excellence, they think about their time here and how it has shaped them into who they are now and who they hope to be in the next five years.  

Welcome to the Hill, Beyonce Williams, a first-year accounting major from Belle Glade, Florida.  

“Initially, I chose FAMU because of Fried Fish Fridays, but once I explored the academics, I fell in love with the SBI program and its different career opportunities. Ultimately, the welcoming support I received from other incoming FAMU students solidified my choice. Everyone was so nice and welcoming, which was nice because I was unsure of how to navigate college life. My campaigning week for class vice president has been the most memorable. Even though it was no sleep, no eating, long nights, and early mornings. I found my people. Those who would support me through anything, and I would support them. I hope to gain a fruitful education and lifelong friends by graduation. I aspire to be someone people can come to for support, happiness, and a smile. In five years, I hope to have a master’s in accounting, be surrounded by family, and have made a positive mark on campus.” 

Sincerely,  

A Rattler. 

With Campbell Oliver, a second-year pre-pharmacy major from Tampa, FL,  her FAMU journey is reminiscent of an Ella Fitzgerald quote: “It isn’t where you came from; it’s where you’re going that counts.” 

“I plan to use my degree to improve my community by helping people of color be knowledgeable in their prescribed medications and provide healthy alternatives. My freshman year was very challenging academically and socially. However, I wouldn’t change anything about it. I learned that I am only as successful as I want to be. I’m succeeding in my academics and making new lifelong friends. For my third year, I expect to be a first-year professional student in the College of Pharmacy. I plan to apply for pharmacy internships in my hometown next summer. By the end of my time here at FAMU, I hope to have made an impact through service and pure kindness. One thing I love about FAMU is the school spirit. Rattlers always show up and show out. In five years, I see myself working my first pharmacy job and saving for a new car. I hope to be somewhere in Georgia or Florida, taking steps to better my community through my line of work.” 

Sincerely,  

a Rattler. 

Michelle Martos, a third-year Fine Arts major from Miami, FL 

“I desire to be an independent artist doing freelance and commission work. I want to grow socially and professionally by creating an art portfolio. I prepared myself best for my next final year by participating in the study abroad trip to France before my sophomore year had ended. It gave me perspective on what I wanted to do in my career and exposed me to new experiences. I want to create a website for my art before I graduate. I also want to experience one last FAMU homecoming. I only ever went once during my freshman year, so I want to celebrate one last time. Looking back at my time here, I’ve learned how to advocate for myself in adversity. The friends, faculty, and education have kept me grounded. It really is a FAMUly. In five years, I hope to become an art teacher. Using the time to create meaningful art and give back to my community.” 

 “A setback is a setup for a comeback.” – Michelle Martos. 

Sincerely,  

a Rattler 

Though Ka’Nilah Thompson, a fourth-year Health Administration major from Tampa, FL, is ending her time at FAMU, she couldn’t go without thanking this institution for everything it has given her.  

“I first came to FAMU as a transfer student in Fall 2021. It was instantly a culture shock from my home college, but I loved it. I was excited to join sister organizations and make new friends. I was especially excited to be independent and navigate life away from home. After I graduate this December, I plan to attend Physician Assistant School and further my occupation as a medical assistant. I will miss all that FAMU has given me. I’ll reminisce Set Fridays, hanging out with friends in the President’s Dining Room on Fried Chicken Wednesdays, homecoming as an undergrad student, football games, and organizations I joined. Five years from now, I hope to graduate from PA school and work in healthcare.” 

 Sincerely,  

a Rattler.