Today we’d like to introduce you to Aretha Bernard.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I’m a 19-year-old girl from Los Angeles, California and a junior at the illustrious Clark Atlanta University. Before entering college, I was in a very dark place. I suffered from Depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts for years before leaving for college. It wasn’t until I left my environment to heal, dug deeper into my faith and actively put in the work to match my faith in order to get out of my depression. I decided to start choosing me. I realized I deserved a chance to experience different circumstances. Once I reached the point of being able to honestly say I wasn’t depressed anymore, I started going after everything I wanted. I went years without seeing a future for myself and no will to live, so to finally be in a better state of mind, I made it my mission to go after everything I want and exceed expectations.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
To get to where I am now, my biggest challenges were definitely myself. I am my hardest critic and I try to out-do myself every day. I struggle with soaking at the moment and accepting what I have right now because I am constantly looking forward to the next thing I want to do. True growth is uncomfortable and I struggled with deciding to give myself a chance and staying stagnant. I’m the very first Junior Miss Clark Atlanta University, so you can only imagine the concerns that come with that. Though, I can honestly say I have a great support system surrounding me on a consistent basis.
What else should our readers know?
Miss Clark Atlanta University is an esteemed position, only a few are chosen for, and represents the University as a whole. “Service before honor, service before self,” is a motto that my Royal Court and I live by. There are plenteous definitions of what a Queen is and what she SHOULD look like, how she SHOULD act and how she SHOULD carry herself. To me, a Queen, especially the Queen of the University, is graceful and leads with that, unity and confidence. Miss Clark Atlanta University is someone students can look up to and feel comfortable confiding in. To be a voice for the students and push for the improvement of the University. As a student leader, you have to be willing to follow as well, so Miss Clark Atlanta University definitely learns from those around her and knows how to mentor as well as be a mentee.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
This is hard! I guess my favorite memory would have to be playing tennis every weekend. I started when I was around four years old. I don’t have much time these days to play, so I definitely appreciate those good times.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: thatsaretha
- Twitter: thatsaretha
Image Credit:
Cam Mitchell (Instagram cmitchellstudios)
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
