How to Become an IBM HBCU Ambassador
In 2022, the Biden-Harris administration's White House Initiative for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) resulted in the creation of IBM Cybersecurity Leadership Centers in over a dozen HBCUs. The student leaders in these HBCUs are known as IBM HBCU ambassadors. These HBCU students are liaisons between their respective universities and IBM professionals focused on education equality. This relationship grants unique opportunities for networking, mentorship, resources, and future opportunities. Want to be an IBM HBCU ambassador? Here's how you can lead your HBCU.
Best IBM SkillsBuild Courses for IBM HBCU Ambassadors
Part of Biden-Harris's Historically Black College and University (HBCU) cybersecurity initiative, the IBM HBCU Ambassador program began in January 2023. IBM HBCU ambassadors are charged with spreading the word of IBM's resources, including meeting and IBM SkillsBuild badge courses, among HBCU students and of course, setting the example. As a former IBM Norfolk State University (NSU) ambassador, I'll share 10 online, self-paced IBM SkillsBuild courses I recommend IBM HBCU ambassadors prioritize when building their Credly badges portfolio for professional development.
6 Ways HBCU Students Can Excel with Parker Dewey Micro-Internships
Historically Black College and University (HBCU) students, there are opportunities to be grabbed and money to be made with Parker Dewey micro-internships. Yes, the paid opportunities are with legitimate businesses and for a decent amount of money per project (usually ~$300). No, its not a difficult process for HBCU students to create a Parker Dewey account and get started. Below, I'll share some tips that helped me succeed with Parker Dewey micro-internships.
How to Apply for IBM SkillsBuild Parker Dewey Micro-Internships
Historically Black College and University (HBCU) students wanting extra income and shorter projects to quickly acquire work experience should check out Parker Dewey micro-internships. College students who participate in IBM SkillsBuild program and understand the importance in the IBM HBCU Cybersecurity Initiative can apply for micro-internships related to those SkillsBuild courses.
Late Review of VP Kamala Harris Hampton University Interview
On September 14, 2023, I watched US Vice President (VPOTUS) Kamala Harris during the first stop in her national "Fight for Our Freedoms College Tour": Hampton University (HU). Hampton U is one of three Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in Virginia, and three hours away from her alma mater, Howard University. The conversation was moderated by Terrence J from the classic 106 & Park show. I was not a fan of what I heard in the 42 minute video.
Norfolk State University (NSU) IBM Partnership
In September 2022, Norfolk State University (NSU) released a news post announcing the IBM NSU cybersecurity partnership. This is part of Biden-Harris' White House initiative to allot more resources and professional development opportunities to students within Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), specifically related to information technology (IT). Four months later, I was entrusted with the role as IBM NSU student ambassador. I've since completed many free IBM courses and released content in an effort to bring more HBCU students' attention to these resources. Course topics include cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, IBM products, and more.
HBCU Music Playlist (2023)-50th Hip-Hop Anniversary
A sister said she needed a list of songs to learn before the school year starts. I recommended KRS-One and Boogie Down Productions' blog listacles on Hip-Hop pioneers to know. But after finishing my Historically Black College and University (HBCU) student address, I rethought my response. Why not make a HBCU music playlist of songs I think every HBCU student today should know?
Some art speaks for itself and should be first experienced without external interference. Below I'll add context to some tracks that deserve a solid call-to-action (CTA) or more notoriety.
10 HBCU-Focused Platforms to Follow
After having the nerve to write an unofficial address to students attending historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), I used that momentum to consolidate a HBCU music playlist. Below are some social media platforms to keep HBCU students in the know about college news, specifically HBCU culture.
Address to Black HBCU Students (2023)
I know, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are more inclusive than predominately White institutions (PWIs). However, this is an exclusive message specifically for native Black Americans, including those who identify as American Descendants of Slaves (ADOS), Foundational Black Americans (FBA), or United Sons and Daughters of Freedmen (USDOF).
What is an IBM HBCU Ambassador?
Starting with the basics, what is an HBCU? "HBCU" stands for "Historically Black College and University" (in the USA). How many HBCUs are there? At least 100, mostly in the south-eastern US. You likely know of the IBM technology corporation. But what is an IBM HBCU ambassador, and why is it important for native Black Americans?
From the PPW and ERB to Veteran Badges?
Army veterans understand the importance of making sure your authorized awards match your Army promotion points, promotion point worksheet (PPW) and other paperwork. Those awards and badges provide a snapshot of your experiences. Once you leave the service, that concept is still applicable to some business ventures and career goals.
Internet of Things (IoT) and Digital Forensics
Amazon Alexa devices, smart doorbells, and Wi-Fi enabled pace-makers have a few notable similarities. First, they simplify and automate redundant, necessary tasks for many Americans' lifestyle, security, and health. Second, they're all available at an affordable price, even after the COVID-19 pandemic. Most importantly, they're extremely portable wireless technologies capable of communicating with common consumer electronics including personal computers (PCs) and smartphones via wireless and cabled connections. That is the glory of “smart devices,” formally known as Internet of Things (IoT) devices.
After You Graduate From College
Congratulations, you've graduated from your university and are looking to capitalize on your new credential. Hopefully, you've done all of the things. Before you ditch your school login credentials, there are few things you should do first.
How to Support HBCUs
Historically Black Colleges and University (HBCU) culture was a hot topic when Deion Sanders left Jackson State University (JSU) for University of Colorado (CU). More than I'd ever seen before, people were comparing predominately white institutions (PWIs) and HBCUs. People were debating integration versus segregation. What I found most interesting was the talk about how HBCU alumni can better support those who attend those schools, which seemingly influenced Coach Prime to leave JSU.
Why Create Content Targeting Black Americans, ADOS, FBA, Freedman Communities, etc.
I've lost a lot of interest in RallyPoint.com, "RP," since writing about professional conduct on the military site five years ago. After sharing links about Black culture like "Complex Layers of Racism" on site last year, I noticed more White people sharing not so subtle pro-integration comments against Blacks supporting our own.
Black Owned Businesses for HBCU Merch
If you graduated from a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) after #BlackLivesMatter, you should have merchandise representing that milestone from a Black-owned business. Here are three quietly awesome choices to choose from.
12 Things You Must Do in College
I was all about learning to use free open source software (FOSS) for coursework at Syracuse University. Looking back, there are some things I wish I'd done more while on college campus. And since I feel that way after going to college well into adulthood, I'm sure high school graduates are bound to make many of these same mistakes.
Here's a getting started guide for things you must do while in college.
Home Network Security Basics
Whether you're starting college or working on a new business, you'll benefit from applying basic best security practices. I'm going to simplify everything you should have on your personal computer (PC), why, and with recommendations so you're not left to figure it out on your own. Follow this cybersecurity guide and become less likely to be a victim.
Scholarships That Could Help You Today
First published on March 16, 2015
I wonder how much trouble I could get in for sharing this extensive list of scholarship programs. I received this list from a FAFSA rep while stationed on Fort Bragg. Apply for a scholarship. It’s free money.
Linux Ubuntu Server versus Windows Server
First published on April 10, 2017
This post goes further in-depth with my thoughts in the Syracuse University InfoSpace blog about evolving with open source software.
Evolving with Open Source Software at Syracuse University
First published on May 15, 2017
I decided to do some guest blogging for an IT blog since I’ve already done two military-related for RallyPoint. Over the last few months I’ve done two for Syracuse University iSchool (school of information studies) InfoSpace blog. My first post explained 5 applications I think everyone should use. My second InfoSpace post – Evolving with Open Source Software at the iSchool – explains how I found ways to use open source software in six IT courses.
