Allen University 

By Nazaiah Grant and Jayden Diaz, 10th graders at Norwalk High School  

Allen University is located directly across from Benedict College in Columbia, SC. We strolled across immediately after we toured Benedict College. This was the perfect opportunity to compare and contrast both schools.  Jacquline Godly, a petite, feisty, and super-energetic advocate of the admissions department, greeted us. She captured our attention from her first hello to the last goodbye. 

The campus felt like a tiny city that was aesthetically pleasing and something we had never seen before. The School is named after the founder of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Bishop Richard Allen. The institution was first named Payne Institute by African Methodist Episcopal Church ministers, including John M. Brown. The more information we received, the more we began to see Allen as a possibility for many of us. Students at Allen University receive free healthcare, a free Apple MacBook, e-textbooks, and scholarships starting with a GPA of 2.5.

We had the privilege of meeting football coach Stork and Dr. Joseph Ray, Director of the Counseling Department. Both had inspiring messages for us. They spoke about the values,  mission, and culture of Allen University. Dr. Ray addressed food challenges for college students, especially on weekends when the cafeteria has limited access. With a grant and partners from the community, his staff operates a food pantry that students and staff can access for groceries every Friday. Allen athletes compete in Division II, and the following sports are available to students: Football, Volleyball, Men's Cross Country, Women's Cross Country, Women's Soccer, Men's Basketball, Women's Basketball, and Men's Wrestling. 

We could see a freshman dorm that hosts two students in a room and two rooms per suite. Each room has access to its bathroom. I appreciate hearing from the Carver staff about the noticeable improvements to the facilities on campus. They pointed out several upgrades which have taken place over the last four years.

A wonderful treat for us was the step demonstration by the Omega Psi Phi and Phi Beta Sigma fraternities. This is a common occurrence among the “divine nine,” giving us a glimpse into Greek life on campus. In addition to the fraternities and sororities, there are clubs based on student interest, student government, and other opportunities for participation.  The University also sponsors a symphonic band, a concert choir, a marching band, a jazz band, and other music ensembles. 

Allen University emphasizes its distinguishing attribute of providing extraordinary care to its students.