FSU Voice

Issue date: 11/18/09 Section: Features

Media Credit: Nathalie Rivera Students Enjoy Dinner in the Cafe

You might call Fayetteville State University a playground for young men. They have the pick of the litter. As of fall 2009, the percentage of males to females is 32% to 68%. "I feel it's sometimes hard to focus, but I put school first, females come second," said sophomore Antonio Elliot. Elliot says dating can be stressful, but he's able to manage. "It depends on the male if they take initiative or not," said Elliot. "My experience is somewhat bias because I only get mostly female viewpoints and opinions in class discussions," said sophomore Briana Murrell. "There are only a few male(s) and only one percent is worth dating," said Murrell. She believes males are not taking initiative in recruiting other young men to attend college like they should. "It shows that this generation of males are not as motivated and determined as females to get a college degree and has no affect on dating," said junior Damar Young. Young says, "Males are taking initiative by making programs such as Bronco Men, a learning community, and Exclusive Gentlemen in addition to using these programs to help males pass their classes and come together as brotherhood."

For young women the lack of young men on campus has some benefits. "It's easier for females to focus because it's not a lot of males to distract them from doing their work," said junior Brandy Hudson. But Hudson also says there are not enough men to go around, therefore dating is affected. "The university is trying to get more male applicants, but males are not taking the initiative to address this concern," said Hudson.

Micki Nyman, Assistant Professor of English, is trying to organize women and gender programs to prepare females for the real world, where they will have to face gender bias. Nyman feels women are taking advantage of higher education. "Women come and make the most of their college experience is why there are more female than male," said Nyman. Gilberto Alvarado, Assistant Director of Admissions, came up with "Captain of My Destiny." The program aims to increase the enrollment of African-American males, decrease drop-out rates, and do away with stereotypes. The first "Captain of My Destiny" program discussed 'No sagging just swagging", said Alvarado.

Michael Head, Associate Director of Admissions, is trying to address the concerns of the campus being female dominant. Head, along with several others, are involved with the FSU Male Mentoring Program. The FSU Male Mentoring Program helps identify and provide resources for males. "Redressing retention and ensuring their success," said Head.

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