By Afrekete*
Recently, when my trusted doctor retired, it stirred emotions that I was not prepared for. As a Black woman aging with HIV, losing a provider who had become part of my healing journey felt like a gut punch, because I did not always have compassionate care.
After I was first diagnosed, I was under the care of a highly regarded White male doctor. His reputation was stellar, but for more than three years, I never reached undetectable. Every month, my labs T-cell count hovered between 365–400, and it felt like a countdown I could not control. I lived in fear of falling below 200—the number that marks an AIDS diagnosis. I feared dying.
By: Kamoria Reese
I am a sophomore majoring in Biology on the Pre-Med track, and I want to share my journey working with the Empowerment Grant this spring semester. This opportunity not only gave me professional experience, but also personal growth that I truly value.
While working on this grant, I’ve gained a lot of valuable skills. I learned how to manage my time more effectively, take constructive criticism with an open mind and, most importantly, I learned not to be afraid to speak up. Looking back on this experience, I can see that while I’ve always done well with technical tasks, communication has never been my strongest suit. As a student, I struggled to express my concerns, especially because I cared too much about what others thought of me. This fear often held me back from voicing my opinions or asking questions.
By: Kamoria Reese
In my new audio blog series, I sit down with fellow college students to explore how they navigate the complexities of dating. They candidly share their safety strategies, the challenges they encounter, and what they seek in a partner. Each conversation offers practical advice and concludes with participants describing their dating lives in just three words. Together, these stories provide relatable insights and support for anyone navigating the modern dating landscape.
In this interview, I spoke with Tay, a college sophomore majoring in film with a minor in music. Tay approaches dating with caution, but remains open to finding a lifelong partner. Throughout our conversation, she shared her perspectives on relationships, personal values, and future aspirations. Her insights offer a thoughtful look into the complexities of modern dating and the qualities she seeks in a meaningful connection.
By Karla Scipio, RN, MPH
I didn’t just choose wellness. Wellness chose me—through pain, purpose, and powerful moments that shaped my calling.
I graduated from nursing school during a time when HIV was still surrounded by fear and ignorance. We learned about gonorrhea and syphilis, but trichomoniasis and chlamydia were barely mentioned. HIV was whispered about, if mentioned at all.
I became a nurse, because I almost died during childbirth. That near-death experience shifted my life’s direction. I didn’t want to diagnose others from afar. I wanted to serve. Nursing was the path that allowed me to walk beside my patients, not above them.
By: Kamoria Reese
In this newly launched audio blog series, I engage with fellow university students to delve into their approaches to safe dating and the primary concerns they encounter. They share candid reflections on the complexities of college dating and describe the qualities they seek in a partner. Additionally, they provide advice and describe their dating experiences in just three words. Together, their narratives offer meaningful insights, support, and a sense of connection for anyone navigating the modern dating landscape.
By: Kamoria Reese
In this new audio blog series, I interview fellow college students to learn how they stay safe dating and the biggest concerns they face. I hear honest insights into the challenges of dating in college and what they desire in a partner. They also offer practical advice and describe their dating lives in just three words. Together, their experiences and perspectives offer valuable insight, support and relatability for anyone dating in today’s world.
The first interview is with Ashley, a college freshman majoring in Health Science with a minor in Biology. Ashley is actively dating in college and is hoping to find her lifelong partner. In this recording, we’ll talk about her dating standards, beliefs, and goals. She will also share advice for others who might also be dating in college.
By: Kamoria Reese
Want to take control of your sexual health? Here are seven simple, effective ways to practice safe sex. Whether you’re in a committed relationship or exploring new experiences, these tips empower you to stay safe without sacrificing pleasure.
1. Using a Contraception
Condoms and other contraceptives help prevent unwanted pregnancies and reduce the risk of STIs. Always use them correctly and consistently for maximum protection.
2. Setting Boundaries
Communicate openly with your partner about your limits and what makes you comfortable during sexual interactions. Healthy boundaries create a respectful and safe sexual environment.
By: Kamoria Reese
If you’ve ever had a STD or HIV scare, you’re not alone. Prevention is the best way to stay confident and clear of your status, but knowing what to do when you have doubts can make all the difference. Acting quickly and responsibly not only protects your health, but also the well-being of others. These five essential steps will guide you through what to do, if you think you’ve been exposed.
1. Avoid Sexual Activity
It’s important to pause any sexual contact. until you’ve received medical advice and your test results. This helps prevent the possible spread of the infection to others.
By: Kamoria Reese
If you’re sexually active or thinking about becoming sexually active, there are some important facts you need to know to stay safe, healthy, and confident. This quick guide breaks down 10 essential things every sexually active person should know.
1. Understanding Your Body
Knowing how your body works helps you recognize what’s normal and when something might be wrong. It empowers you to make informed decisions about your sexual health.
2. Knowing Your Rights
By Matthew Wiggins
I’m Matthew Wiggins. I am a senior at Howard university who graduated in May 2024 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Strategic Communications and a minor in community development. In my last semester, I joined a class called CapComm Lab. This class is designed to provide students with firsthand experience in the field of communications through actively working for different clients who need communications-based work. In my case, I was tasked with assisting with the HU Empower Grant, which is a multipronged HIV awareness initiative by Howard University and a premiere national HIV nonprofit, HealthHIV.
