As graduation approaches, senior Nevaeh Palmer reflects on her collegiate journey—defined by a series of unexpected opportunities.
For Palmer, a native of Dallas, Texas, her freshman year at Florida A&M University (FAMU) began online during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although she loves being a Rattler, she admits FAMU was not her first choice.
“I had already committed to Prairie View. I had paid my deposit and was trying out for their dance team, but after visiting FAMU’s campus something about it felt like home,” she says.
After breaking barriers by becoming the first Black captain of her high school’s dance team, Palmer was disappointed when she learned she did not make Prairie View’s dance squad. However, her acceptance to FAMU lifted her spirits and she quickly decided to leave Dallas for Tallahassee.
“I was able to get my deposit back. I said goodbye to my (Prairie View) roommate and made plans for Florida,” Palmer remembers.
Then, the pandemic derailed her plans, and she opted to attend FAMU from home.
“Taking classes online was sometimes challenging, but I was happy to physically be at FAMU the following semester. I later joined the Venom Pom Squad, and I tried to soak in the whole college experience,” she says. “I met friends who were very nurturing and took me under their wing. FAMU really has something for everyone.”
She was even able to launch a new venture at the University.
“I was approached to be a Victoria’s Secret Pink college representative for Prairie View, but I was able to bring the program with me when I came to FAMU.”
Originally a business administration major in the School of Business and Industry (SBI), Palmer soon understood her passion was not in spreadsheets. After being featured in Pink’s promotions, Palmer realized she wanted to explore a modeling career. She met with the owner of a Miami-based modeling agency who offered some harsh, but ultimately valuable advice.
“She told me to change my hair, remove the lash extensions, switch my major, quit the dance team, and I did everything she said. I knew if I wanted this as a career I would have to make some sacrifices,” she says.
Her efforts proved profitable. She later signed with the Miami agency and began receiving offers for work with some influential companies. However, Palmer maintains the leap from business and accounting to the School of Journalism & Graphic Communication (SJGC) was not as shocking as some would expect.
“My experience in SBI taught me how to use my elevator pitch, how to brand myself and how to decipher contracts. I use those lessons daily, she offers. “But, changing my major to graphic design allowed me the flexibility to pursue modeling. It also fueled a passion I have for marketing and provided a much-needed creative outlet.
Palmer, who is currently signed with Ford Models, has previously appeared in several music videos as well as advertisements for major fashion retailers, such as Abercrombie & Fitch and Hollister, says balancing academics and modeling was not always an easy task.
“There have been times when I have been asked to attend a casting call with very little notice and I’ve had to decline,” Palmer says. “It was important to prioritize my studies and stay focused.”
Her dedication was successful. She will soon cross the commencement stage and later trade her cap and gown for photo shoots and catwalks. Her career plans include pursuing modeling while leveraging her degree in graphic design to explore opportunities as a creative influencer. She credits FAMU with equipping her with tools to follow her dreams.
“Starting college during the pandemic taught me that life is unpredictable, but if you remain open, opportunities will flow in your direction,” she says.
As she prepares for her next journey, Palmer hopes her story will inspire others to also follow their dreams.
“Whatever your goal is, no matter how hard it is, it’s worth it,” she advises. “Press forward; the results will show.”
