Snap, Crackle, Pop: You Thought It. I Said It.

Sweet King Financial Aid. Sweet Mother Validation. You made it to theMecca! How great are you feeling right now? Maybe how Kanye West felt after he recorded "Through The Wire."

That initial feeling of celebration because you've accomplished something great that you might have never thought possible. After worrying all spring about if you would get in or not, and then you did.

Now you're here, and you're probably a little anxious about your next steps. How will you be perceived? Will you do well this semester? Will you make friends? All of these are valid questions indeed, but will the answer to these questions define your success at Howard?

While listening to Watch the Throne, this central idea of what it means to "make it" is ever recurring. As I continue to listen, I can only remember thinking, "what is it that sets the standard for making it in America?" Is it just getting in to college? Is it getting a job? Is it a seemingly paper chasing reality?

On the other hand, it could very well be just getting by. It's not like we all wake up "planking on billions," so what are we to do in the meantime? What keeps you motivated on the days when dreaming just isn't enough?

Again, you've made it to Howard University, and you most definitely deserve a standing ovation, but what will you do when the curtain comes down? How will you continue to impress and woo the crowd? Your next steps are very important, freshmen. For this bubble that you have just entered has a very short lifespan. The Howard hand will fade, the pals will wave goodbye, and your ID card won't grant you access to the fine cuisine in the cafeteria.

In short, whatever your definition of success may be, don't limit it to the entrance of this institution but continue to surpass the goals you set for yourself.

I believe it was Diddy who said it best, when he stated, "When too many people know your name, change it."  What does this mean you ask? Never get too comfortable, always look for something greater, and continue to expect more from yourself! 

Again, welcome to Howard University class of 2015. The journey to greatness may start here, but where it ends, only you can determine.

George Chapman is a senior broadcast journalism from Brooklyn, N.Y.