AAMU Freshmen Accept the Challenge

“Your story is unique,” said Attorney Ciera Berkemeyer to some 1,500 new students during Alabama A&M University’s annual Freshman Convocation and Torch Lighting Ceremony Monday, August 15.       PHOTOS

Berkemeyer recounted her experiences as a student on The Hill a few short years ago, back when she was a talented student athlete majoring in political science.  Born and raised in North Las Vegas, Nev., she immersed herself in the collegiate experience, joined the Honors Program, participated in the Fulbright Program, and graduated from AAMU in 2018.  Today, Attorney Berkemeyer is an associate at Kudulis, Reisinger & Price, where she assists clients with a wide array of contractual, account and lending matters, according to her bio.

She told the freshman class that any baggage that they are carrying would only stop them if they let it.

Berkemeyer said she marvels at what she has accomplished because of her A&M affiliation, including an opportunity to study in Tanzania, editing a law school journal, meeting lifelong friends, receiving African-American history, along with a foundation upon which she could build a career.

She urged the class to embrace the experience by decorating their rooms and forming a bond with their roommates.   Further, the University of Alabama-trained lawyer encouraged the students to “explore the curriculum” on their own to avoid surprises and to remain on track for graduation.  Berkemeyer noted the importance of establishing “a good support system” and of “asking for help.”

She rounded out her advice by stressing the benefit of having flexibility, in addition to the ability to “live in the moment.”

Jaila Green-Mascotti, president of the AAMU Student Government Association, presented the senior challenge, while Presidential Scholar Miles Johnson, gave the “Acceptance of the Challenge” on behalf of the Class of 2026.

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