One graduate, five questions, go…
Vinson Johnson '98 (English Language Studies: Language & Literature)
How did your education prepare you for what you are doing today?
My education prepared me to be more confident in completing tasks. The hardest thing to do is start and finish something, and, although I’m a lifelong learner, my accomplishments of having an education made me fearless. Taking a creative writing course and other classes towards a language arts degree prepared the foundation for me to write music for myself, television and film.
What is your greatest professional accomplishment or a recent professional accomplishment of which you are very proud?
To date, I’d say licensing a music curriculum called Organized Rhyme to the University of Miami. One, because I created it from experiences that I valued. Two, because I own it. Also having music in the hit show "Bel-Air," while having a children’s book called "Socks" and another book, "What Words are Worth, Vol .1," reach Amazon's top ten poetry books. Appearing as myself on Netflix's "Peabody and Sherman," and having a show on MTV, "The Lyricist Lounge Show." Being able to maintain this journey and constantly elevate.
What programs do you support at SUNY Old Westbury and why?
I support the English program because it broadened my idea of what is important in literary works. Not only was the Victorian period important, but the professors I encountered wanted to know about current literary works from musicians and artists. The program was open-minded to listening to their students.
Do you have any advice for current students?
My advice would be: Choose a major that you enjoy and don’t be afraid to introduce new things to your professors. They don’t know everything as you don’t as well, so it’s imperative to teach and learn from each other. Don’t be afraid to do your work non-traditionally because something becomes tradition. Instead of a paper, maybe a song.
What is your favorite memory and/or spot on campus?
My favorite place on campus was Academic Village because you knew everyone had to go there. We’d meet there and then discuss what time we’re heading to lunch or dinner. Also, I used to love being at the radio station doing freestyles that played in the cafeteria.
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