This Q&A is part of the story series Voices of Drake that highlights the diversity, ambition, and passion of the incredible people who make up our campus community. In recognition and celebration of Black History Month, we will be sharing a collection of interviews to spotlight Black voices in our community. This week’s story highlights Tayelon Scott who is studying graphic design and digital media production.
Tell us about yourself
I am from Houston, Texas, and I study graphic design and digital media production. I’m into creative work that tells a story, whether that’s through design and media. My passion is to be a filmmaker and produce documentaries that tell stories from around the world.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black History Month to me is a way to reflect and learn the story of many Black people, both from the past and now. It’s not limited to those who have made a big impact to society; Black History is the stories that are being shaped by many black people.
Why did you choose to attend Drake?
I chose Drake to continue my family’s legacy of education. My mother was the first person in my family to graduate from college, and she has always encouraged me to attend a strong university and prioritize my education. I wanted to attend a school like Drake to honor that legacy and create better opportunities for both my family and me.
What is your favorite thing about Drake?
My favorite thing about Drake is the connections you make on campus. Through my classes, clubs, and organizations, I’ve built strong friendships and met so many people at campus events. My friends have helped me grow and become a better version of myself. Beyond friendships, I’ve also connected with people who share my interests, and they’ve helped guide me toward achieving my goals.
In what ways have you grown since coming to Drake?
I’ve grown socially. Before coming to Drake, I was very quiet and kept to myself. I didn’t talk to many people and wasn’t very involved in social events. Since coming to Drake, I’ve opened up more and become more active in the community by joining clubs and organizations. Drake has pushed me each year to do more and stay engaged in the campus community.
What do you hope to do after you graduate?
I hope to work for a documentary production company where I can continue developing my skills and help bring attention to Black stories that aren’t widely known, even within the Black community.
Who has been some of your important mentors during your time at Drake?
David Duncan has been the most important mentor during my time at Drake. He has helped me to do more than what I think I can do, and he saw more potential in me. He encouraged me to be part of Coalition of Black Students.
Are you involved in any student organizations, groups, or community service work? Tell us about those experiences.
I have been part of Crew Scholars since my first year, and it has taught me a lot about leadership and allowed me to grow personally. I am also part of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., and have been a member for almost two years. I serve as the treasurer and president of the Omega Chapter. As an organization, we host events around campus to engage students, and we participate in doing community service both on and off campus. Recently, I have been the chief
marketing officer of the Coalition of Black Students. I have been creating flyers, promoting events that we host on campus for students.
What do you hope is accomplished during the month of celebration and recognition?
I hope Black History Month creates opportunities for education, reflection, and celebration while uplifting Black voices and stories that are often overlooked. My goal is for people to leave the month more informed, more connected, and more motivated to contribute to positive change.
Who has been the biggest influence in your life, and what lessons did that person teach you?
My mother has been the greatest inspiration in my life. She was the first person in my family to earn a bachelor’s degree, and her accomplishments motivated me to attend a prestigious school like Drake and pursue higher education. Throughout my journey, she has taught me not to limit myself and to go after whatever I want in life with confidence and determination.
How do you like to spend your free time? Tell us about your hobbies and interests.
I’m more of an art person, so in my free time I like to draw graffiti-style pieces and create designs for myself. I recently got into photography through my class and my friends. With photography, I mostly enjoy taking pictures of people, but I’ll also take photos of places and objects.
What advice would you like to give to a student thinking about coming to Drake next year?
Don’t be afraid to grow outside your comfort zone and remain open to learning different things. You never know what opportunity may open to you.
