Roland Martin, political commentator and analyst, used his journalism experience and success to encourage Prairie View students to take advantage of every moment to achieve their dreams at Tuesday’s Students Participating In Transcending Knowledge program.
Martin began his lecture discussing how people can give detailed descriptions of what they want their dream house to be like, but do not factor in all the pieces for their dream life.
He said, “What happens every day has a traumatic impact on the rest of our lives,” and explained how being an inquisitive student allowed him to make and keep professional relationships.
Martin told stories of his childhood which included growing up with his father watching the news, and how the knowledge he gained allowed him to impress an influential political figure. This pivotal moment caused him to gain the support to attend the 1989 National Association of Black Journalists Convention.
Every job Martin has had is the result of relationships established at the convention, and the fact that he understood what was required of him to reach a higher level in his field.
He also discussed how romantic and familial relationships affect success, and that sometimes these people attempt to stop an individual’s forward progress.
Martin said, “I have no problem being alone, I like being with me.”
He believes he was successful because he separated himself from those around him, and trained to operate on a professional level.
Another story Martin shared was of him completing a 50-minute in class writing assignment in 20 minutes because he was told that he needed to be able to be quick and accurate in his field.
He also stated that functioning at a higher level allows you to outsmart those who “will question your legitimacy, even when you are at the top of your game.”
Prarie View A&M
Tuesday, June 24, 2025