Xosha Lafayette is an incoming freshman and film major at Texas A&M University, a school she has been looking forward to attending her whole life. She already knew that college life wouldn't be easy, and adjusting to campus life would be difficult...
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"Are you sure you want to go here, Xo? My alma mater Spelman is still taking applications until next month," my mother said as she put my suitcase into her trunk.
"Yes Mom, I know where I want to go to school. Texas A&M is the place to be." I had grown tired of trying to get my mother's approval when it came to my choice of school. If she supported it, she supported it. If she didn't, she didn't. Oh well.
"Alright, you win. I'm just afraid that you'll stick out like a sore thumb there and you won't make many friends. You're going to a predominantly white school in the middle of Texas, Xosha. It's not going to be the same like up here in Florida."
"Mom that's exactly why I chose this school. I need a change of scenery and environment. Florida isn't going anywhere. I'll be back for holidays and breaks."
"I know but I'm still going to miss you."
We hopped in my mother's car and started our way to the airport. Everything was going smoothly so far, but I couldn't help but wish my father was here. Instead of prioritizing and deciding to join my mother and I on the drive to the airport, he chose to vacation with his wife in the Bahamas—what great timing! The entire car ride consisted of my mother and I jamming to the songs on my phone, which was connected to the aux cord. I was honestly surprised at my mom for liking what came on, because my dad was the only one who really knew my music taste and took time to listen to the songs that I recommended. But I guess this would be the last bonding moments we'd have for awhile, and she wanted to cherish things. After all, I am her only child.
Finally, we got to the dropoff arena, where I'd be on my own. As expected, my mother got all dramatic and emotional with tears coming out of her eyes and a cracking voice.
"Take care of yourself, Xosha!" she cried as she hugged me.
"I will Mom, goodbye." And with that I was on my way.
My flight wasn't scheduled to board for another two hours, so after getting through security and checking my suitcase at the baggage area, I had nothing left to do but walk to a Panera Bread and have a sandwich. I sat and ate a Mediterranean Veggie Sandwich, a bag of chips, and a lemonade. After eating, I threw out my trash and watched YouTube videos on my phone, which only lasted for about five minutes because it was killing my data limit.
I wanted to explore the airport, but at the same time I was too lazy to. My parents and I had flew out of this one several times throughout my life but I was never by myself. I sat down in the boarding area, which was pretty much empty except for me and another guy, who seemed just as bored as I was. He had on a pair of headphones and was staring at the ceiling, probably daydreaming. Besides the fact that he was unamused with his surroundings, he was also extremely handsome. He was dark skinned man with medium length dreadlocks. Although he had mild acne, his face seemed pretty smooth. He sat across from where I was, engrossed in his music.
