Fayetteville State University Diversity Council

Student Spotlight

Name: Natasha N. Williams Home Country: Trinidad & Tobago Graduation: May 2006 Current Status: Law student, Howard University School of Law

Known for her big, beautiful smile Natasha Williams is a proud FSU alumna who embodies the rich culture and flavor that makes Fayetteville State University a proud and diverse Historically Black College/University. As one who excelled in the classroom and as a student leader, Natasha left an indelible mark on her alma mater and exposed students from 'the states' to a world only seen on TV.

Did you have any cultural apprehensions about leaving Trinidad & Tobago to attend Fayetteville State?
I was very nervous when I came here even though I had visited the States on vacation. However, I was able to adapt.

Was there a person(s) from your country who influenced you to attend FSU and if so, how did they sell you on the school?
Actually my mum moved to the States during my first year of secondary school and after graduation, she started talking to me about moving to live with her.  However, it was not until two years later that I actually came. The only school that I applied to was Fayetteville State University.  My mum’s boss, who later became my sponsor was from Fayetteville. I knew nothing about Fayetteville State growing up. She encouraged me to attend college and I have never regretted that decision. FSU is an excellent school that provides a nurturing environment while still challenging you all the way. 

What organizations did you hold membership with while at FSU?
I was involved in Student Government Association, Student Activities Council, International Students Association, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and the National Pan-Hellenic Council @ FSU.

What are your most memorable moments as a Bronco?
Wow, this one is tough. I had several memorable moments at FSU.  Two of my favorites were joining my sorority and working as a Resident Assistant during my senior year.  I am a people person and being an RA gave me the opportunity to meet new students and host a variety of programs.  Additionally, the residence hall that I worked in was new at the time so my fellow RAs and I will always be able to say that we were the first RAs of Bronco Hall. 

Did membership with ISA provide any personal benefits?
The personal benefits that I gained were the opportunities to host programs that educated the student body about Trinidad and other countries. Through ISA, Fayetteville State’s student body was exposed to the rest of the world.

Did you ever feel isolated as an international student?
No. Although, freshman year was a little challenging because my accent was very strong and there were times that communication with my peers was somewhat difficult. However, I never felt isolated because there were other students from Trinidad and my new American friends always made me feel included. In fact, they welcomed my differences. They always seemed interested in learning how we do things in Trinidad, as opposed to the States.

How has FSU prepared you professionally and personally?
Joining several organizations at FSU and interacting with different faculty and staff prepared me adequately for law school. FSU taught me how to be a team player and that there is only so much you can do on your own. My time at FSU also helped me personally. I learned so much while I was there which helped morph me into the person that I am today.

You often displayed your Trinidadian pride for all to see, do you think people were drawn to you because of that and did you use those instances to educate people about Trinidad?
I think initially people were drawn to me because I am from Trinidad. We, as humans, are always drawn to what is different. In addition, I was able to use those opportunities to educate my fellow students about Trinidad and in turn, I too learned about the United States. 

What are you currently doing?
I am currently attending Howard University School of Law and will receive my Juris Doctorate in May 2010.

What are your future plans?
To graduate from Howard Law and become a successful litigator. I also hope to open a non-profit organization that helps women and children who have experienced domestic violence.

Would you recommend FSU to students from the Caribbean?
Yes, I would. FSU is a great university where you can grow not only academically, but spiritually as well. It is a school that fosters a diverse environment and allows everyone to be him or her self while learning more about others. I would recommend FSU to anyone, Caribbean or otherwise.