Derrell Thompson – Freshman University of West Florida
I am a Senior at Tampa Bay Technical High School. Joining the MOT program wasn’t my first thought going into my Junior year. The thought of spending my Saturday’s at workshops, and participating in scheduled events like bowling competitions and Greek games surly were not a priority of mine at the time, but after attending the first meeting I thought, “This might not be so bad.” My mom also helped me realize I needed to be a part of a “club”, and that being around the successful mentors in the group might help me with missing my dad who is serving 5 years in prison.
I quickly realized that she was right and learning from a great group of men wouldn’t be such a bad idea. Being in a single-parent household I hadn’t had many male influences in my life yet, and the MOT leaders have proven that there are still dedicated and responsible men in this world. I have learned to take responsibility for my actions and manage my time more efficiently.
Due to the “Back to the future College Tour”, I have been introduced to brighter horizons. Before the trip I was only thinking about Florida schools and now I see there are a variety of colleges that offer the same programs as any other schools here in Florida, so why not explore my options
I have been accepted to Tuskegee University, Bethune-Cookman, Methodist University, Concordia, Jacksonville University, University of West Florida and Florida Memorial, just to name a few. With all these options, I have yet to decide where I will be attending.
Because I had the opportunity get free SAT & FCAT prep, apply for scholarships I qualified for, and be around young men that brought me out of my element, I consider myself blessed to be a part of this 2012 Alpha Phi Alpha Black and Gold ball.
Thank you to everyone who has contributed in any way, shape, or form. Your efforts have really made a huge impact on my life as I’m sure it did with all the other MOT’s.