Unleashing My Critical Perception

History has never appealed to me because it has always been about "his-story." For the first time in twelve years of my academic career, attending public school, my classes have alway been subjective. I was not inclined nor interested in learning about the fall of the Roman Empire, Crusaders or Revolutionary wars. I did not feel a cultural connection or found a common ground. The information I was learning did not apply to my personal life or change my perception of the world. It was not until this semester that I discovered a history subject I found a genuine connection with. Originally, I began my Fordham career as a Communication and Media Studies major. After requirement complications I was forced to declare a different major. I tried to major in Spanish but felt that I would relate more to African American studies. This January, I began my major and now have come to the realization that this was a blessing in disguise. Every lesson that I had in my three African American courses has affected my way of thinking and how I apply myself in today's society. I have grown this admiration for black political leaders, specifically Martin Luther King, Jr. and Malcolm X. I left every class with Professor Chapman enlightened. I now have a profound interest in African American history and will continue to pursue it as my major. For the first time I will admit that having a deep understanding of the lives of Martin Luther King, Jr. and Malcolm X has created a new me. This class has allowed me to reflect and evaluate my childhood, religious upbringing, High School and College experience using their lives as a lense. Welcome to "my-story!"

Set Future

My parents are both immigrants from the Dominican Republic who chose to move to the United ...

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...mative Action debate this semester and voiced my concerns. I constantly mention King and Malcolm X whenever I get the chance. For my African American History I class, I chose to write a Final Paper on David Walker and Martin Luther King, Jr. Furthermore, I have encouraged my friends to read their Autobiographies. No class has affected my way of thinking like this one. I found "my-story" in history and was able to connect it with my past, change my present to prepare for my future.

Thank You Dr. Chapman,

Thank You Martin Luther King, Jr.

And Thank You Malcolm X

For allowing me to find myself.

Works Cited

Cone, James H. Martin & Malcolm & America: A Dream or a Nightmare. Maryknoll: Orbis, 1991. Print.

King, Martin Luther, and James Melvin. Washington. A Testament of Hope: The Essential Writings of Martin Luther King, Jr. San Francisco: Harper & Row, 1986. Print.