Aubriana Lowery is a native of Pulaski, Mississippi. She is an only child; however, she is the youngest of 4 half-siblings. Lowery earned her Bachelor’s degree in Broadcast/Journalism (Mass Communications) at Alcorn State University (ASU) in May 2022. Shortly after graduating, she began working as a news producer at Gray Television (WLBT 3 and Fox 40). She continues to strengthen her skills at the station and has always had a passion for writing.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE ALCORN?
The purple and gold ran in my blood. I come from a legacy of aunts, uncles, cousins and a mother who all attended Alcorn. I wouldn’t have chosen another institution to further my studies upon graduating high school.
WHAT ORGANIZATIONS WERE YOU A PART OF WHILE AT ALCORN?
I joined the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), and the Sigma Alpha Pi Chapter of the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS.) In my department, I joined the Alpha Chi Alpha Chapter of Lambda Pi Eta, and Mass Communications Club. I also was Editor-in-Chief for The Campus Chronicle (Alcorn’s online newspaper) during my Senior year. I was also Vice President of the Alcorn Thespians Drama Club. I am a Spring 2022 initiate of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Zeta Chapter.
HOW HAS ALCORN HELPED PREPARE YOU FOR YOUR CAREER?
Alcorn has truly molded me into a better individual. I grew out of my shell more and discovered my true passions. When I first got there my Freshman year, I did not know what I wanted to major in. I had no clue of what field was for me. After a semester of Psychology, I quickly realized that was not the path that I wanted to take. An upperclassman/friend who was majoring in Mass Communications suggested that I take a class since she knew I loved to write. After that, I grew a liking for the department. Having my own radio show, reporting on stories for ASU TV-13 and writing pieces for The Campus Chronicle strengthened my people skills and my love for Journalism. Also, having the opportunity to write articles for Alcorn’s Marketing Department helped with my writing skills as well. Being able to showcase my talents at that level was truly an honor. I am thankful for the professors and staff members that saw my gift and pushed me to my limits.
WHAT IS SOMETHING THAT YOU ENJOYED THE MOST ABOUT ALCORN?
There’s nothing like the family atmosphere at Alcorn. You’re able to be yourself and not feel out of place. I’m a true country, Southern chic so Chicken Wednesdays, fun on ‘The Green’ and ‘Parking Lot Pimping’ as we call it, is what I loved the most about campus. I’m from a rural area so it didn’t take me long to get acclimated. I made life-long friendships while being at Alcorn. That 4-year chapter will always be dear to my heart.
DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR CURRENT STUDENTS ON ‘THE YARD’?
The advice that I must give is make the most of everything: Every opportunity, every path you cross—those years fly by. There’s nothing wrong with having fun but know what you came for. Don’t forget your “reason” in attending. And, let that be your motivation. Whether you’re doing it for yourself, your family, or whatever it may be–let that be your reminder when times get tough. Lastly, the way you carry yourself holds weight. You never know where your character can lead you or what it may save you from.