The most radical thing a black woman can do is say No
“Black women all over the world are shining. Practicing black girl magic, melanin on fleek, and thriving in their careers. But it is not their skin that makes them unique, but rather similar. However, It is their story and their journey that captivates people making each and every one special in their own way.” -Taylor Mills
Early Childhood…
April Gaines is originally from Philadelphia, but was raised in North Carolina. She grew up with her older sister, and mom who valued education. April Gaines attended High Point Central High School. She later attended the University of Miami where she attained a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Psychology and Criminology, with a minor in Military Science. After attaining her BS degree, April immediately started a PhD program at the University of Akron in Counseling Psychology.
When I grow up…
“At five years old I wanted to be in the FBI. I was influenced by the show The X – Files. I had to decide between joining the FBI, or attaining my PhD first. I decided to get my PhD instead.” –April Gaines
Career…
“I’m a full time student. However, I currently work as a Psychology Assistant. It’s a student position.”- April Gaines.
Lessons learned from work…
“The biggest lesson I learned is that it’s okay to say no. As a graduate student, you have a lot on your plate from the moment you start. No one thing is hard, but the combination of everything can be difficult. The most radical act a black woman can do, is say no and take care of herself.” – April Gaines
I am proudest of…
“I am proud that I got accepted into a PhD program immediately after undergrad. I am also proud that I received two full ride scholarships for my bachelors program. I also got paid while in school. I knew that no one in my family would be able to pay for me to go to school. Getting those scholarships, and my degree is my biggest accomplishment thus far.” – April Gaines
Remember me as…
“I would like to be remembered as a woman who spoke her mind. I also want to be remembered as a woman who was able to navigate her way through all spaces. I want people to value my opinion and input.” – April Gaines
Traveling back in time…
“If I could travel back in time, I would tell my younger self to take a financial planning class. Coming from not having anything, my ideas of money, debt, credit, etc. was far from reality. I thought any debt was bad debt. I could have purchased my first home in undergrad with all the money I saved.” – April Gaines
10 years from now…
“In 10 years I envision myself fulfilling my dream job, which is being able to consult with the Army Sergeant General to influence policy within the military. There are a lot of opportunities in the military. However, there are also policies that have been written that have counted black people out. I would like to help change those policies.” – April Gaines
Confidence is…
“Confidence is knowing when you don’t feel beautiful or intelligent, and deciding to still view yourself that way. Confidence is also when you go against what your mind is telling you, and try to see yourself as who God is calling you to be.” – April Gaines
To be a black woman is…
“To be a black woman to me means being strong, and also being vulnerable while learning from my mistakes. We do the impossible, with the least amount of resources, and we are the most oppressed group. It really is magic. “ – April Gaines
“To be a queen is to be a champion. Every queen wears their crown differently. Although our journeys make us unique, our destinations continue to make us the same. Every queen is grinding for a purpose; every queen is shining in her own light. Just remember no matter what queen, you got this.” -Taylor Mills
