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Acknowledgment and Gratitude to Kush Models University for Fostering a Culture of Respect at Bowie State University

by: Mardline Prevot

Via Bowie State’s Kush Models University


As a student, you encounter all sorts of people and situations. Sometimes, it's a breeze, and other times, it feels like a storm you have to weather. For a while, I struggled to understand the attitudes of some women on campus at Bowie State, particularly in a few frustrating encounters.

One instance involved a sorority sister from the fall 2024 class who confronted me over a flyer. Another issue arose when I was an E-board member and had trouble getting access to an LGBTQ+ Instagram page. These experiences left me feeling confused and frustrated. I've always preferred to be a calm, cool, and collected person, so these interactions were tough for me to handle.

Stepping Out of My Comfort Zone

Recently, something shifted. While leaving the Martin Luther King Jr. Communication Arts Building to study at the Thurgood Marshall Library, I saw the reflection of the Kush Models University organization's models. I'd been networking with their CEO, so I decided to get out of my comfort zone and try out.

The members were incredibly supportive, teaching me how to walk with confidence and power. I practiced with them, and while my walk couldn't compare to theirs yet, they made me feel welcome and appreciated. This experience with Kush Models was a positive turning point, teaching me to appreciate who I am and to always show up as myself.

Finding My Path

I've been on the fringes of the modeling scene before, but I've never fully embraced the role of a model, especially here in the DMV area. This experience, however, helped me realize how important it is to own your character and your unique way of being. As the saying goes, "It would help you to name how family patterns have influenced the way you relate to people." I've learned to keep my cool, even in frustrating situations, and the Kush Models team deserves a lot of credit for helping me stay in character and not "crash out."

Overcoming Obstacles

Campus life isn't always smooth sailing. Just last night, as I was trying to focus on my coursework, I had to deal with a bigoted upstairs neighbor who wouldn't be quiet. It’s hard to stay calm when you’re investing time, money, and energy into becoming the impactful and unapologetic alumni I've always wanted to be.

But these moments don't define me. Instead, they fuel my character, which I’ve named Stereo Tau. Stay tuned for more on this character when I present it in my theater class.

In the meantime, I'm grateful for the lessons I've learned and the positive people who have come into my life. Every challenge is an opportunity for growth, and I’m ready to embrace whatever comes next.

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