Meet Fatimah Wansley
Why did you choose to attend UM?
I chose to attend the University because I felt like it would be the best place for me to get an education in an environment that would propel me forward in terms of personal growth. It was a long internal journey because I was constantly reminded of the history that UM has as it pertains to exclusion, but I also knew that this flagship university could offer me a wide variety of opportunities for my future. After 2 years, I know that I made one of the best decisions of my life. I have learned more about Mississippi history in the short time that I have been here than I have in my entire matriculation of public school. UM has become a second home for me, and learning about all those who made my attendance possible only makes me feel even prouder to be here.
When and how did you choose your major(s)/minor(s)?
I changed my major during my junior year once I realized how passionate I was about my home. At first, I was an International Studies Major-- because I have always cared about political relations and wanted to improve the way our government handles them. While this is still true, I realized I wanted to start my work a little closer to home. I want to be a part of what makes Mississippi better, and learning more about my history has shown me that the best place to start making change is your own backyard.
What would you tell a high school student about your major? What is most important for them to know if they’re interested in pursuing that field of study?
I would tell a high school student that studying AAS will open their eyes to a brand new world. Unfortunately, we are not sufficiently educated on all of America's history, but majoring in AAS will give you a deeper appreciation for this country, because you will learn of the beautiful contributions that African Americans have made for this place, and it is impossible to not appreciate that knowledge.
Why is your department a special place?
The AAS department truly feels like family. I have gained mentors and supporters in such a short time, and I feel celebrated in my field of study. All of my professors are passionate about what they teach, which makes me passionate about learning from them. They care about their work, AND their students, and I know I made the right choice by joining this department.
Can you tell me about a professor or a class you’ve taken that has had the most impact on you?
Dr. Patrick E. Alexander's "Mississippi Then and Now" class was the best class I have ever taken in my life. He is not a Mississippi native, but his passion for this state's beautiful history made me so proud to be a Mississippian, because I learned about figures that I had never heard of-- but now will never forget.
What has been one of your most memorable or enjoyable moments at UM?
Participating in the annual open mic nights that BSU and/or the AAS department hosts. I love poetry and being in these spaces empowered me to share my poetry with the world, and I look forward to it every year.
What do you hope to do after you graduate? What are your career goals/ plans for postgraduation?
I want to go to grad school, and potentially pursue a Ph.D. I hope to work with non-profit work surrounding community development and the prison system, as these are two things that I am extremely passionate about.
What are some dream travel destinations?
Samoa, Brazil, and Ireland
What is one thing you wish you knew as an incoming freshman that you’d tell your past self (about the general college experience)?
Growing pains are inevitable, but they will build you into a better person. Trying to navigate a new world is not easy, and it will never be, BUT along the way you will find so much love and it will motivate you to keep going especially when you're at your lowest. Sometimes, you will cry for days, stress about the future, lose people, and feel overwhelmed, but "this too shall pass." I have learned so much about myself in these past few years, and I know I will carry some of these lessons for the rest of my life. But without them, I would have never become the beautiful, successful woman I am today. It is okay to be scared and unsure, but it all works out in the end. Even when you feel alone, you're not. Even when you feel low, you are still loved. As long as you don't give up on yourself the world will not give up on you. Give yourself grace as you handle growing up, be kind to yourself, and know that everything offers you a lesson, and those lessons make you who you are-- they make you beautiful.