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.

Eric Whitehead – Freshman University of Florida

I am a Senior at Tampa Bay Technical High School. After graduation, I will be attending the University of Florida in Gainesville. This was my first year participating in the Men of Tomorrow program and I must say it wasn’t time wasted. I am very thankful and honored to have been a part of such a special program encouraging young brothers like myself to be successful in life. The program ensured we had fun while also continuously learned every step of the way. The Saturday meetings were early and long, but I am thankful for the SAT Math & Reading prep taught by Mr. Bryant and Mr. Evelio. With the help of these instructors and tutors, I was able to get answers to questions I had in my current classes, as well as, accomplish an SAT score of 1475.

The “Back to the Future” College Tour was my favorite part of the program.  We got a chance to travel for a couple of days and visit several great universities & historical sites. Along with us on the tour are the Sons of Allen AME Church.  We had a chance to hang out, got along great, and enjoyed the trip together…they were a cool group of guys.

I am also thankful for my MOT brothers, really a great group of gentlemen: Matthew, Sam, & Miles just to mention a few; we were always laughing and having a good time together. Last but not least, I want to thank Mr. Paul, the head of the MOT program, for all the hard work he has done for us this year and making all of this possible. Even though I won’t be back next year because I am a graduating senior, I will definitely recommend and encourage other young males to join this program; as I did with my younger brother who will be participating in the program next year.