From Denmark to Harvard and Back: The Journey of Dr. Washington

In a classroom conversation, Dr. Washington a professor of communication with a journey unlike any other sat down with students to talk about education, resilience, career paths, and what it really means to stay in motion. What followed was an honest, humorous, and deeply human narrative about navigating life, loss, ambition, and purpose.

Sound Bite: “I was born and raised in Denmark, South Carolina… Graduated in 2001.”

Benedict. Morehouse. Savannah State. Norfolk State. And finally, Jackson State University, the place that felt like home.

Dr. Washington’s story begins in the small town of Denmark, SC, a place he says he never expected to come back to. After graduating high school at 16 with AP credits already under his belt, he launched into a long, winding educational journey that took him across the country.

From Morehouse to Savannah State, Norfolk State, and ultimately Jackson State, he explored major after major in communication, English, sociology until finally landing in journalism and media studies, where things began to click.

His degrees span institutions like Northwestern, Harvard, and the University of Pennsylvania, but his reflections on rigor surprised the room.

 Sound Bite:
“Harvard was a joke… I never read one article. I just listened in class and got a 4.0.”

Yet, he describes Penn as the most academically challenging—particularly in finance and administration.

Sound Bite:“I work with one foot in the door and one foot out. Never become complacent.”.

Dr. Washington’s professional path includes teaching roles across multiple universities, leadership in marketing, and even a stint in the fashion industry. His job at Be Visionary Enterprises in Houston remains his favorite:

 Sound Bite:
“I love clothes… I have 362 pairs of Jordans.”

But he also sees potential. He spoke passionately about revitalizing small towns, attracting industries, and increasing economic mobility.

One of the most striking closing statements was about the value of higher education today. 

Sound Bite:
“A bachelor’s degree is like a second high school diploma.”

But the message he left with students was simple—and powerful:

 Sound Bite:
“If I can’t find a way, I’ll make one.”

Bold. Brilliant. Unfiltered.
A hometown son who traveled the country, earned degrees across the map, and returned to pour fire, honesty, and opportunity into the next generation.

 

Action Sequence (A Trip to O'Reilly Auto Parts)

 For this project, I created an action sequence centered around a student making a fast-paced trip to O’Reilly Auto Parts. The goal was to turn a simple errand into an exciting, cinematic moment by using dynamic camera shots, energetic editing, and music that helps build momentum. The sequence follows the student from the moment they enter the store to grabbing what they need and heading out, creating a sense of urgency and movement throughout.

Edit and Music: Adobe Audition  

I enjoyed experimenting with different angles inside the store and figuring out how to make the environment work for the action theme. If I were to redo the project, I might add even more movement-based shots, like following the student from the parking lot or using more dramatic close-ups. Overall, this was a fun and creative project to work on.

Top 5 Music List

 Hi everyone! My name is Samuel Mitchell. I’m currently a Senior majoring in Communication Broadcasting at South Carolina State University. I grew up in Orangeburg South Carolina, a place that shaped a lot of who I am, especially when it comes to the music I love.

Music has always been part of my everyday life. Whether I’m studying, driving, hanging out with friends, or unwinding at night, there’s always something playing in the background. I love music that tells stories, hits emotionally, or just feels good. I’m a huge fan of Gospel, but I can be picky. I also love R@B, and one country song. 

For this project, I put together a full on-air radio-style audio production featuring my Top 5 Favorite Songs of All Time. Keep reading for the countdown, links to the performers, and the audio production itself!

Click here to Listen to full rundown 

Edit on Adobe Audition

#5 – “Danza Kuduro” by Don Omar  

Listen: Danza Kuduro 

This track has one of the catchiest openings. The moment those first notes hit, I’m transported back to being on vacation in the Caribbean. It blends emotion with energy, and it’s been part of my playlist for years.

#4 – “Gasolina” by Daddy Yankee 

Listen: Gasolina 

“Gasolina” is one of the most iconic reggaeton tracks ever released, and for good reason. From the moment the beat drops, the song explodes with irresistible energy that defined an era and pushed reggaeton into the global spotlight. Daddy Yankee’s delivery is sharp, confident, and instantly recognizable, riding the pounding dembow rhythm with effortless swagger

#3 – “Breezin” by George Benson

Listen: Breezin'

This one always hits me with pure nostalgia. I used it a lot as background music for studying, relaxing, or late-night drives. The storytelling is incredible, and the melody stays stuck in my head for days.

#2 – “Lose Contral” by Teddy Swims  

Listen: Lose Contral 

“Lose Control” is a powerful, soulful showcase of Teddy Swims’ remarkable vocal range and emotional depth. The song blends elements of pop, R&B, and soul, creating a heartfelt confession about being overwhelmed by love and the chaos it can bring. Swims’ voice is raw and commanding, soaring through each chorus with a gritty passion that feels both vulnerable and explosive.

🥇 #1 – “Right on Time” by Lisa Knowles 

Listen: Right on Time 

“Right On Time” by Lisa Knowles is a soulful, uplifting gospel track that showcases her powerhouse vocals and heartfelt delivery. The song’s message centers on faith, patience, and trusting that God’s timing is always perfect, something Knowles expresses with both strength and sincerity. Her voice rises effortlessly above the rich harmonies and dynamic instrumentation, creating a sound that is both emotionally stirring and spiritually grounding.