Me and Kemba

I come across the story of Kemba Smith, not thinking much of it. Kemba's story was compelling and made me think how much a terrible series of events could happen to such a young, smart, and beautiful woman. Unfortunately, we never crossed paths because she graduated from High School in the year of 1989, one year after I was born. Soon after reading the story, it came to me that she had many similarities in her life to mine.

Kemba Smith grew up the Glenn Allen suburbs which are located in Chesterfield County; as well as I. I also spent my childhood years in Chesterfield County; my suburban neighborhood lying next to hers. Kemba attended Hermitage High School which is one of many of Thomas Dale's rivals; the high school I went to. In high school we both played active rolls in our school and community. Kemba contributed in many ways such as her association with the AKA debutant society and active roll in the church. I too was involved by way of the honor society and actively joining community groups in the YMCA. She was a part of Hermitage's three hundred-thirty man marching band and played the flute and I played the snare drum in my high school band. She got much of her musical talent from her father, as well as I with my father. My father and I had a keen sense for noticing the rhythm in music and beats.

During Kemba's and my senior year of high school, we both began to go through the whole college process my choosing and filling out applications. Kemba was very interested in the black experience but her parents weren't so fond of the idea. Kemba had her mind set on three, major H.B.C.Us: Spellman, Howard, and Hampton. Mr. and Mrs. Smith strongly disagreed but were persuaded and allowed Kemba to attend Hampton University in the fall of 1989. I went through a similar situation concerning my senior year and thoughts of college. Throughout the whole application process, I had my intentions of Morehouse, Hampton, North Carolina A&T, and Howard. My mother had no say about it but dreaded my choices because she thought I wouldn't be viewed the same as if I were to go to a predominately white school. The city school of Howard wasn't too appealing to neither Kemba nor Me and Atlanta was just too far, thus make our choice of Hampton University, "my home by the sea".

Arriving on Hampton's campus was very nerve wrecking for both Kemba and me. Kemba arrived to Hampton as a shy, pretty young girl with not much confidence. She quickly found a close net of friend and began to enjoy her college life.