My name is Terrance Campbell and I was born in Southfield, M.I., and early on in my childhood, my parents (North and South Carolina natives) instilled in me the importance of academic excellence. Taking advantage of as many academic opportunities as I could, I excelled in academically gifted and advanced placement courses in secondary school. Soon thereafter, I attended and graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill obtaining a bachelor’s degree in sociology.

I decided to pursue a graduate degree in sociology at NCCU in order to study the effects of childhood dental experiences before continuing on to dental school.

What initially brought me here was NCCU’s unique Master of Sociology program. NCCU offers the option of obtaining a master’s without pursuing a doctorate degree. Most programs in the
area, such as UNC-Chapel Hill and N.C. State, require that you obtain your doctorate degree for entry into their program.

My decision was confirmed by the warm welcome and inviting staff, particularly Dean Murray. His willingness to help and to ensure that I received the best education possible while attending this university let me know that NCCU was the right choice for me.

I think that it is important to give back as an alum because you are charged with the responsibility of making sure that future students have the same, if not better university experience that you had yourself. Giving backis not limited to monetary contributions. It also includes time, service, and effort.

My ultimate goal is to be a pediatric dentist. My studies here at NCCU will help me understand how children’s dental experiences help mold their dental histories from a sociological viewpoint, enabling me to provide the better pediatric dental care.