Tajah Pinkard, a native of San Diego, California, was destined to be a Spelman woman very early in her life. Throughout her childhood, her mother instilled in her that “smart, pretty girls go to Spelman,” and from that point forward, Pinkard had her mind and heart set on attending the one institution in the nation that cultivates the intellectual and spiritual transformation of Black women.
Upon acceptance, Pinkard purposed to be a student who excels. A Ethel Waddell Githii Honors Program member, she has also maintained active membership in the First Gen Scholars Club and So Psyched! Psychology Club, where she served as the club’s co-president during her senior year. Through Spelman’s rich partnerships, Pinkard has studied abroad in the Dominican Republic, and has also served as an undergraduate practicum student with the Nia Project whose mission is to empower African American women survivors of abuse, experiencing suicidal thoughts to access behavioral health services, find a new sense of purpose, lead more meaningful lives, and affirm their commitment to living a violence-free life.
During her time at Spelman, Pinkard not only focused on her educational and professional endeavors, but she learned and experienced the true meaning of friendship and sisterhood through the relationships crafted with her Living Learning Center l hallmates turned best friends.
“Although I grew up used to being a top performer, attending the institution known as “The Birthplace of Black Girl Magic“ made me somewhat question my own abilities and intelligence. However, once I shifted my focus to only compete with myself, the only way to go was up. Instead of seeing my fellow Spelmanites as competition, I choose to only battle the woman I was yesterday," said Pinkard.
To her Spelman sisters, Pinkard leaves this valuable advice: "Always remember no one posts the struggle (or rejections), so focus on the mirror. It is a prettier sight where we can all shine!”
Although she is saddened to exit the gates, Pinkard is beyond grateful for all she acquired while attending Spelman. Above all, she considers being a Top Ten Graduate and the first in her family to graduate from college, as one of her most honorable achievements. She is excited to pursue a M.Ed./Ed.S. in School Counseling at the University of Georgia, where she will gather the tools needed to combat inequities in mental health and K-12 schooling.