Filling out the Minority Fellowship application for the second time was one of the best things I ever did. It opened doors for opportunities to travel and learn beyond my university and paved the way for sisterhood and friendships that I'm certain will last a lifetime.
Over the past few days I traveled to Greensboro and Chapel Hill, North Carolina to attend a qualitative research training with my MFP colleague. Not only did I receive direct instruction in grounded theory by one of the most renowned scholars (Kathy Charmaz) but I also got to spend quality time with my girls.
Our big sister in the fellowship graciously hosted us in her home and introduced us to all of Greensboro, including the famous HBCUs in the area and some of the best cake and soul food I've had in a long time.
I got to tour the International Civil Rights Museum and visit the statue of "The Greensboro Four". Of those experiences, I will never forget walking into the actual cafeteria where the Greensboro sit-ins were ignited. When the doors opened to that space I felt overwhelmed by the spirit of that era. It was both powerful and enraging. Inspiring and delicate. I will never forget.
Although an unanticipated near 12-hour train ride home placed a bit of a challenge at the end of the trip, it could not minimize the value of this experience.
I am exhausted but definitely wanted to capture these memories among my top PhD journey experiences. I'm grateful and full of joy...and cake!!!
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