By: Jose Matthews
Blake Thomas picture of him getting ready for college
What motivates you in life? What’s
your will of fire? According to Thomas Blake its “Family “. Growing up in Charleston South Carolina.
Thomas is the middle child of three, raised by two hardworking parents. From a
young age Thomas was raised to be independent. Family of five: Married parents
and two brothers. Thomas older brother being 20 years apart, he always had to
play the big brother role and second to being man of the house. Thomas never
asked for much. In High school during his
9th grade year he found out his mother was diagnosed with “Breast
Cancer “. In America 1 in 8 woman in the united states, or 12% of an individual
woman has a chance of developing breast cancer over an 80-year lifespan.
Unfortunately, Thomas mother fell under that. But knowing Thomas that wasn’t
enough to get him down. He thought positive, kept faith. That’s part of the
reason why his mother became a breast cancer survivor. During this time Thomas became stronger and
wiser. In high school he decided to join the “Leadership Program “, traveling
state to state for better experience. Shortly after, the best time of the year
was coming. A time when all family gets together. Every memorials day Thomas
family has a family reunion in Virginia. I know Thomas personally, everything
is always a growing experience to him. The next step in life was going to
college. Thomas chose one of South Carolina's HBCU schools. Such as South
Carolina State University.
About: Thomas Blake
Hometown: Charleston, South
Carolina
Major: Communications
Broadcast/Journal Major
School: South Carolina State University
Undergraduate
Blake Thomas picture in his House
1. How did you
balance being the middle child? My parents did not spoil us but raised us to be
very humble. We as brothers never asked for much. When funds are there my
parents never had a problem given us what we need. So, we were never spoon fed.
2 2. I know it
came as a surprise when you found out your mother had breast cancer? Yes, it
did. I was worried but my family is so strong minded. I knew as a family, we
can get through this together. My father
started to work longer hours and my mother was no longer active. During this
time, I learned to be more appreciative of my mother, you only get one. Life is
not promise. I must be thankful for what I have.
3. What would
you tell somebody that’s going through a similar situation in their family? Anybody
that’s going through a similar situation don’t isolate yourself thinking it’s
the end of the world. Be around good people. Stay active, stay alive, and positive
minded. Stay in contact with a lot of your friends and keep them updated on the
situation just in case you need some help. This is the time to be strong, be
somebody your younger siblings can look up to.
4.During High school you decided to join the leadership program, what was that like? Yea I
decided to join the leadership program because I felt like I need to get more involve
in school activities. I felt like I can take that role and I wanted to accomplish
something to make my family proud.
5. What would
you tell someone who is thinking about volunteering? I would tell them to
choose an organization they would get most out of and will enjoy to the
fullest. Once you get in, make sure you get to know the people you are working
with. You want to Build connections
6. Every year
you have a family reunion is it everything you expected? When I tell you that I
wish everyday was a family reunion. I see cousins I grew up with and uncles
that raise me. We have family events such as all white party, game sack race,
we go to the beach, and the Country club.
7. What would
you say is the most valuable moment? (Important) That’s a good one. Out of all
the fun that happens during my family reunion weekend. I would have to say when
my uncles pull the next generation to the side to talk about our family past
and what they expect from us in the future. You know one of deep conversations
you have about why family is the only thing you have in this world and you
should never use sight of that.
8. How do you
think your family and friends would describe you? My family and friends would
describe me as a quiet person that doesn’t try to stand out. I might not be the
best communicator but I always enjoying listening. I know for a fact that they
would say I’m very helpful. I’m a little bit of a loaner but once you get to
know me I can be very goofy.
9. You attend
South Carolina State University. Out of all schools why this one? I Love my
HBCU. The reason I chose this school is because of Legacy. My previous family
went here so I felt like it was only right that I continue the tradition. One
family in mind is my aunt “Sandra Gadsden “. She played woman basketball during
the 1978-81 season, and was inducted to 2014 SC State University Athletic Hall of Fame.
10. What are your plans after graduation? I’m a Mass communication major. I plan on
being a Sports Analyst or a producer. I already know that I have to start small
and work my way up and I’m okay with that. I just started learning how to work
the camera. I help broadcast school games and special school events.
Thomas Blake picture after a cold night
