We recently connected with Alicia Wicks and have shared our conversation below.
Alicia, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
Having spent equal parts of my life in predominantly African American and predominantly Caucasian environments, I’ve come to embrace my authentic self. I understand my strengths and what I bring to any situation, confident in my capabilities alongside my colleagues. Being the sole individual who looks like me in a room doesn’t daunt me; instead, it fuels my drive to excel. My mother instilled in me the importance of commanding respect in any setting, recognizing that true value isn’t found in the loudest voice. Knowing one’s own worth fosters confidence, which others can admire and aspire to emulate.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
Greetings, everyone. I’m Alicia Wicks, currently a junior majoring in criminal justice with a minor in psychology. I am on the pre-law track at Clark Atlanta University. My aspiration is to become a Criminal Defense Attorney and eventually establish my own practice. While this is a significant ambition, my ultimate long-term goal is to pursue a career in public office. Currently, I serve as the Chair of CAU Votes, a student-led coalition dedicated to advancing voter registration, education, mobilization, and civic engagement on our campus. Additionally, I hold the position of 2nd Vice President of the National Council of Negro Women Clark Atlanta University section. I’m deeply committed to civic involvement as a current Andrew Goodman Student Ambassador and former Common Cause fellow. In my spare time, I volunteer with organizations such as Black Voters Matter, The Concerned Black Clergy of Metro Atlanta, and local NCNW Community Sections (Greater Atlanta). I am a passionate public servant and student activist focused on empowering fellow students with knowledge of their rights, encouraging them to exercise the voices our ancestors fought for us to possess. On campus, I’ve led initiatives, including Social Action Panels (NCNW), Voter Registration Drives (CAU Votes), Etiquette Classes (NCNW), Stem Panels (NCNW), and more, providing platforms for students to embrace their potential as young adults striving for excellence.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Three qualities, skills, and areas of knowledge that have profoundly shaped my journey include my determination, adaptability, and comprehensive understanding of my rights as a Black woman. My advice to those embarking on their own journey, seeking to develop or enhance these qualities and skills, would be to embrace patience. Life unfolds as a marathon, not a sprint, though admittedly, I’ve grappled with impatience myself. Striving for perfection is futile, as each person is inherently flawed yet beautiful in their imperfections. Cultivating patience within oneself is crucial, alongside resilience. The world can be challenging, presenting numerous obstacles, but it’s essential to persevere through setbacks. Each fall serves as an opportunity to rise stronger and wiser.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
The most impactful thing my mother has done is expose me to her selflessness. From a young age, I witnessed her embody the strength of a Black woman, making countless sacrifices to provide my siblings and me with the best opportunities, surpassing what she had in her own upbringing. My mother is my ultimate role model, whether intentionally or unintentionally, instilling selflessness within me. She has taught us that even in life’s toughest battles, God stands by us, guiding us through every challenge. Witnessing her relentless pursuit of her academic goals, culminating in her attainment of a Ph.D., has expanded my perspective immensely. Mom, if you’re reading this, I want you to know how much I love and appreciate you for everything you’ve done, continue to do, and simply for being yourself. You are the cornerstone of my strength and identity as a Black woman.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: alicia.w__
- Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/alicia-wicks-7a7539241
