For many students, taking the ACT is more than just a test — it’s an opportunity to strengthen skills, build resilience, and prepare for the challenges of college. Terrell L. Woodard, Jr., a senior at Northwestern State University and an accomplished student leader, knows this firsthand. By taking the ACT multiple times, he improved his score and developed the perseverance and preparation habits that have shaped his college journey. Now, as a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity, Terrell continues to embody those values, using leadership and brotherhood to uplift others. In this interview with ACT, he shares his experiences, insights, and advice for students pursuing higher education.
What are your academic and professional aspirations?
I am currently a fourth-year student majoring in biology with a concentration in biomedical sciences.
Currently, I am the 96th student body president, Mr. Northwestern State University, co-founder of the Black Male Alliance, and a member of a plethora of honor societies, including Alpha Lambda Delta First Year Honor Society, Blue Key National Honor Society, and Order of Omega Greek Honor Society.
Academically, I aspire to continue my education by getting a master’s and doctorate in pharmacology. Professionally, I aspire to become a pharmaceutical or medical technology salesman.
Who has motivated or inspired you in your college-going journey?
Although it might sound cliche, from the beginning to now, my mom has constantly been a motivating force behind my success, both academically and extrajudicially. Through every trial and tribulation that I have faced during my time in college, she has always been there to help steer me back in the right direction, and for that, I am forever grateful!
In addition to my mom, I would say that my friends and my fraternity brothers have been not only motivators throughout my collegiate journey but they have also been a source of inspiration to urge me to continue to press forward. I can say that I have surrounded myself with the best support system that a college student could ever ask for. We constantly challenge each other to be the best versions of ourselves, and I am so proud to see how far we’ve come!
What resources, such as scholarships, mentorship programs, or college prep materials, did you receive during your pursuit of higher education? What did you find most helpful?
Prior to pursuing higher education, I applied myself both academically and in extracurriculars in high school. From being President of the Beta Club to running varsity track, I made sure that I stayed involved throughout my time at DTSMA. With this, I also made sure to remain diligent in finishing my academic studies strong and graduated with a 4.1 GPA.
With my academic standing, I received the full amount of TOPS assistance that could be allocated to me. I was also blessed to receive a scholarship from Northwestern State University that covered almost all of my tuition. With the help of two foundation scholarships (Patrick F. Taylor Foundation and JonCade Clemons Memorial Scholarship Fund) that I received, I officially had my college completely covered. I have not had to come out of pocket for any expenses during my time at school. I also received the Genevieve Mack Book Stipend Scholarship from the Nu Epsilon Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated in Lafayette, LA. I am so grateful that these opportunities have allowed me to make it all the way through college debt-free!
What barriers have you faced in accessing higher education, and how can these be addressed?
While attending both David Thibodaux and Northwestern State, I can gladly say that there has never been an instance in which I felt like I wasn’t given the opportunity to access higher education. This, however, is something that I know is a reality for a lot of students across the country. I’d say that the best way for this to be addressed is for those who do have access to higher education to continue to advocate on behalf of those who may not have access to it. Sometimes, one of the only ways for you to get into the room is for someone who is already in the room to speak on your behalf, and I believe that we should work harder to connect with those in need!
What advice can you offer to other Black/African American students who are hoping to pursue a college degree?
I would say that if you are even thinking about getting a college degree, just go for it. Being a college graduate holds so much power in your pursuit of a career. A degree broadens the range of opportunities that are available to you. There are so many ways that a college degree can be used. Even if you are the first person in your family to pursue a degree in higher education, just know that there are resources available to help you succeed in your pursuit. I believe that everyone is fully capable of being a college graduate. Whether you pursue an associate's degree from a community college or a bachelor's from a college or university, there are programs that will meet the needs of all prospective students!
Why is it important for people to be aware of and understand Black/African American heritage?
It is important to be aware of and understand Black/African American heritage because it highlights the trials and tribulations that have shaped not just black communities but the entire nation. This history has provided the context of our present-day and is key in making advancements for our communities. As we learn more information about our history, we will be better equipped to combat ignorance and dismantle racism by creating spaces of empathy and awareness of systemic injustices.
As we work towards continuing to educate the future of the Black/African American community, we need to know that the recognition of our heritage isn't just about the past; it's about recognizing the direct impact that the past has on society today.
What are your hopes for educational advancement for Black/African American students like yourself?
To continue education advancement for Black/African American students, I hope that we are still afforded the same opportunities that all students can receive on campuses. I hope for a future where Black/African American students have equal access to high-quality education without systemic barriers holding them back. More scholarships, mentorship programs, and resources should be available to support students from underrepresented backgrounds. I want to see a curriculum that fully acknowledges Black history and contributions, not just during Black History Month but throughout the whole year. Across the board, college should feel like a place where we belong, not where we have to constantly prove ourselves or fight for recognition. Ultimately, I hope for an education system that empowers Black students to thrive, innovate, and be leaders in whatever fields they choose to pursue.
What role did the ACT play in your journey to college?
As a student who took the ACT multiple times in hopes of getting a higher score each time, I would have to say the ACT taught me that with proper preparation and determination, you can achieve anything. I took the ACT earlier in high school and didn’t do my best, but after going through the proper steps to strengthen the areas I was weak, I was able to do much better! Going through this before college taught me that just because you don’t achieve your goals the first time, you are more than able to put in the work and try again. Whether I knew it or not, this laid the foundation for my collegiate experience!
What advice would you give students when it comes to choosing a test to demonstrate their skills for higher education?
I would say to definitely do your research on which test fits the needs of your academic testing style. If you see that the configuration of one test is more in tune with the types of tests you’re successful at, then go for that test. Also, do some research on the potential colleges and universities you might want to attend because there might be a particular test that they typically prefer for applications.
On a personal note, my high school only offered the PreACT and ACT tests, so I was only exposed to anything that was related to ACT. In all the times that I took the ACT, I never had any complaints about the format and conditions in which I took it! With that being said, both tests present students with the opportunity to showcase their academic skills, and if you decide to go with either test, you will be well-equipped to transition to college!
