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2025 Fall Academic Semester: Senior Thesis Edition
by: Mardline Prevot

Advertising Design by Mazopal Design


Back on Campus: The Final Semester

The summer was a lot.

I just officially kicked off my final, pre-graduation semester as an undergrad at Bowie State University. I’m studying Visual Communication and Digital Media Arts with a concentration in Advertising Design. And after the roller coaster of a summer I just had, it feels good to be back on campus.

You'd think a summer full of new opportunities would be a great thing, but my "movie production" of a summer, set in the United States, started with a major plot twist.

The Scam and The Struggle

I thought I'd finally landed a great summer internship. It was a remote position, and after an interview on Microsoft Teams, they sent me a check to deposit. It felt legit. But when they asked me to send money via Zelle or Cash App after the check didn't clear, I knew something was wrong. I was a victim of a scam.

That experience hit hard. I felt vulnerable and exposed, and it came at a time when I was already struggling with the financial realities of being a student. The thought of losing electricity at home was a real fear. So, I did something I never thought I would do: I put up a GoFundMe. I didn’t want to suffer in silence, worrying about what others would say. I posted a link on LinkedIn, admitting my struggle with paying bills and sharing my story.

It wasn’t a plea for pity. It was a moment of radical honesty and a refusal to let fear hold me back. I was putting my truth out there, not for anyone's approval, but for my own peace of mind. And I am so grateful to the people who chose to support me instead of casting judgment.

Finding My Rhythm

After the spring semester ended, I decided to live a little. I used what little money I had left to take an Uber to Washington, D.C., for a Haitian Flag Day celebration hosted by some new friends. I instantly connected with my Haitian roots, especially with people from Jérémie, Haiti, in the Grande-Anse department. The vibes were incredible—from the music to the people. I fell in love with the culture and the community.

That night was a turning point. Instead of chasing a typical 9-to-5 job, I decided to join the family business. As a Haitian advertiser, I’m now collaborating with other Haitian creatives, organizing happy hours, and promoting Haitian artists. It feels right—a perfect blend of my heritage and my craft.

Looking Ahead: The Final Chapter

Now, I’m back on campus, focused on finishing strong. All of my experiences this summer—the low moments, the cultural connections, and the new career path—have fueled my senior thesis.

I’m calling it "Ayiti Nou La: Racine Tribute." It’s a multimedia project that explores Haiti’s identity since its independence. I’m diving into social activism, cultural heritage, and iconic music from the 17th century all the way to today. It’s a tribute to the resilient Haitian spirit and our African roots. I'm blending maximalism with modern design to create a project that's both vibrant and immersive.

My goal is to acknowledge the current challenges we face while celebrating a message of hope. This thesis is a full-circle moment, combining my academic work with the personal journey I’ve been on. It's the perfect way to cap off my undergraduate career.




Mardline Prevot, VCDMA, ADVD, Bowie State University. 

Fall 2025 Academic Semester

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