Class of 2026
(He/Him/His)
Reginaldo Howard Scholar
Hometown: Brooklyn, New York
Major: Visual and Media Studies: Cinematic Arts
Hobbies: I love all forms of art. However, listening to music changes my energy, it uplifts me, makes me happy. From Tyler the Creator, The Smiths, Neutral Milk Hotel, Travis Scott, Kendrick Lamar, Kanye West, Nirvana, Phoebe Bridgers, Lana Del Rey, to the Mamas & the Papas. I also enjoy creative writing. Every time I open my computer to write I feel that exhilarating rush of creation.
Why Duke?
Being a recipient of the Reggie Scholarship means that I am in the position to focus solely on receiving an education at Duke University. Education involves a progression of growth. Being educated means having agency over what I learn and how I learn, which will facilitate an ever-developing evolution of self. Education means real learning—not just the what, but the why. Not just cold hard facts, but the spirit of engagement that breathes life into those facts. When one embraces this kind of real, non-artificial learning, we can engage with the true value of education. Education should turn the gears of the imagination and pursuing it should make you happy. What I value regarding education is purpose, activity, and pursuit that my education is something I want and strive for and not something that is passively foisted upon me. If one is continuously exposed to content that stimulates interest and sparks passion, I believe this will ultimately contribute to personal happiness and expansion, and then my education will have been surpassed. This type of education is key to helping me achieve my goals in life. I sincerely believe that education can take me to my dreams and goals if I am willing to learn, expand, and be curious. This scholarship has provided me the opportunity to focus on pursuing the getting there.