Healing Hornets hosts ‘Life After DSU’ panel to prepare students for life beyond college
Delaware State University’s Healing Hornets, a student-led organization focused on mental health, recently held its first “Healing Hornets Week.” The week was designed to create conversations about mental health through workshops on topics such as anger management and safe sex. One of the week’s highlights was the “Brightside: Life After DSU” panel.
The panel was co-hosted by Nia Dooley, a sophomore majoring in elementary education from Indianapolis, and fellow DSU students Tamia Johnson and Ava Wycliffe. During the panel, University alumni shared their experiences transitioning from college to the workforce. They discussed the challenges of navigating the job market and the need for flexibility in today’s economy.
Kenya Miller, a freshman majoring in accounting, was particularly moved by the panel. ”It was reassuring to hear the panelists share their personal experiences, especially about changing career paths. Their stories reminded me that it’s never too late to pivot,” said Miller. “The biggest takeaway for me was realizing that the plans I have for my future could be too narrow—there are much bigger things ahead if I trust the process.”
Jameela Gordon, a sophomore from Smyrna, Delaware, shared her thoughts about the panel. ”Attending this discussion was eye-opening. Hearing from recent graduates about how they balance challenges in both their personal and professional lives gave me a clearer idea of what my future might hold,” said Gordon. “It was motivating to realize they were once in our shoes and are now thriving in their careers. The panel made me realize that my experiences can be powerful growth opportunities.”
Nia Dooley reflected on the importance of hearing from alums. ”This event was one of my favorites. Learning from those who’ve already walked the path is so important. The panel helped me realize how to stand out in the job market and maximize my college experience.”
The panel offered students valuable career advice, personal insights, and a stronger sense of community. It reminded them that life after graduation can be tough, but it’s also a time full of chances to grow and succeed. Students walked away from the discussion feeling more confident and ready to take on whatever comes next.
Samara Benjamin, a 2023 graduate, expressed her gratitude for being invited to speak with the students: “It was a rewarding experience to engage in such an open and honest conversation with students. The panel helped highlight the challenges and strengths we all face as we adjust to life after graduation.”
After the panel, students participated in a reflective activity in which they wrote letters to their future selves about their goals and plans after graduation.
Written by Devin Bonner