How to Survive Your First HBCU Homecoming
Courtesy of Getty Images/Visual Vic
Nervous about navigating your first HBCU homecoming experience? I got you! Here are all the tips and tricks you’ll need to make sure your first homecoming is memorable, safe, and enjoyable.
Buy Your Outfits Early
One thing about HBCUs: those mail center lines are always packed around homecoming. From people trying to grab last-minute pieces to retrieving packages they forgot, it’s a hassle. Instead of scrambling the day of to put outfits together, order yours in advance! Beat the crowd and aim to have your outfits at least two weeks ahead, so you’ll have everything you need when homecoming week arrives.
Find a Group of Friends You Trust
Having a group of friends you trust is essential for both safety and fun. HBCU homecomings can get crowded, and it’s easy to lose track of people if you’re not with your crew. Plus, having friends makes it easier to get to events or after-parties, split Uber costs, and ensure you stay safe in new environments.
Stay Hydrated and Cool
This might be the most important advice I can give: stay hydrated. If you’re in the South, expect it to be hot, and the crowds will only make it feel hotter. Water and a small fan will be your saving grace—whether you’re at the concert, in the middle of a crowded tailgate, or at a party where the air feels non-existent.
Get Your Tickets When They’re Cheap
Ticket prices for parties and events tend to increase the longer you wait, so grab them early. Look out for early bird specials and secure tickets even if you’re unsure about going—you can always sell them to someone in need closer to the event.
Don’t Forget About Your Classes
Homecoming week doesn’t mean no classes for most HBCUs, so it’s important to stay on top of your schoolwork. Give yourself at least an hour each day to knock out assignments between events, and don’t skip class—you’ll regret it later. Homecoming is about having fun, but keeping your priorities straight will help you avoid getting sidetracked later in the semester.
Remember to Be Safe
This ties back to staying with a group, but safety is key during homecoming. You’ll be surrounded by new people, large crowds, and a lot of movement. Carry pepper spray or something similar, and never go anywhere alone, especially after dark. If you’re drinking, don’t leave your drink unattended, and if a situation or place feels uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to leave—true friends will go with you if you express concern. Know your limits, both with people and substances, so you don’t end up in an unsafe situation.
Wherever you go, you can make your first HBCU homecoming experience enjoyable by staying safe, knowing your limits, and sticking with people you trust.