Meet AWU Campus Ambassador, NC A&T Fall Graduate, and December Scholar of the Month: Isaiah Barco

All Ways Up Program Coordinator, Na'eem Wilkins, recently had the opportunity to speak with Isaiah about his experiences managing his senior year in the middle of a pandemic:

Na'eem: Before we get started, I want to highlight the work that you have been putting in as an ambassador for All Ways Up! As a campus ambassador, actually, as a co-ambassador with Zephania Galloway, you both have done a great job connecting with All Ways Up scholars attending HBCUs. You always go beyond the call of duty and it doesn’t go unnoticed. Thank you! With that being said, with everything that's going on, how are you doing?

Isaiah: Adjusting to school during a pandemic was challenging to say the least and I had my moments. But I finally crossed the finish line! I’m also in the process of looking for work and preparing to transition to graduate school. I will be starting next month, so I have really been gearing up for that.

Na'eem: That’s so awesome, congrats! I know we talked earlier this school year and we established a plan of action to help you navigate this new normal. Any tips for dealing with Zoom/online learning? What helps you with any burnout you experienced?

Isaiah: Zoom fatigue is real! You know, in the beginning, I struggled with managing my workload but everything takes time to adjust. A lot has taken place from protest to the elections, on top of COVID-19. I like to read different novels as an outlet. It helps me to take my mind off of the present and really venture off into the topic of the book.

Na'eem: Oh yeah? What books have you been reading lately?

Isaiah: Harry Potter has been my favorite lately. I see a lot of adverse content on my phone daily so taking a break and reading has been helpful.

Na'eem: I agree, reading is essential and can be a great outlet to take your mind off things. I’m inspired, thank you!

So on top of this great advice you just shared about reading, based on your journey—do you have any words of advice that you would like to share with our AWU community?

Isaiah: Absolutely! My advice to our scholars is simple but so important. “It’s not how you start, but how you finish!"

Na'eem: I really, really appreciate you sharing that. It’s like, anyone can start, but finishing what

you started is key. Congratulations again on your graduation and everyone at All Ways Up wishes you all the best in what’s next to come!