College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
African and African American Studies Program
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Student Experiences

Nkonsonkonson

What I try to tell young people is that if you come together with a mission, and it’s grounded with love and a sense of community, you can make the impossible possible.

Civil Rights leader & Congressman John Lewis

The Adinkra symbol of nkonsonkonson, chain link, reminds us that we are all stronger when linked together. Even taking just one class in African and African American Studies, you’ll become part of a supportive and engaged community, where students, faculty, and alumni come together to learn, grow, and support one another. Here, you’ll find people who share your curiosity and are invested in your success.

Get involved

African American Studies Society

In the African American Studies Society, you’ll connect with peers who share your interests while engaging with ideas and experiences that broaden perspectives and contribute to vibrant campus dialogue.

Become a student ambassador

Become part of the program’s student committee and have your voice heard, provide insight, and help develop activities and events that get others involved. And get paid.

It is not taboo to go back for what you have forgot.

Akan proverb

Guided by Sankofa, the principle of learning from the past to move forward, African and African American Studies at Iowa State is dedicated to extending learning beyond the classroom by participating in outreach projects, partnerships, and visiting important cultural and historical sites and institutions. You’ll gain hands-on experience, strengthen leadership skills, deepen your understanding through interactive learning, whilemaking meaningful connections in the broader community.