There are thousands of students attending Florida A & M University that call home to cities from around the world, and some of these students are proud to represent Miami.
“Miami is the only place in the world where you can learn Spanish without even taking the course, wear a tank top in the middle of December, and sip cocktails next to Jay-Z,” said Ashley Wilcox, 18, a freshman criminal justice student from Miami.
According to the United States Census Bureau, Miami has a population of over 2 million, the city is home to one of the largest ports in the country, and it has the fourth largest school district in the nation.
Natural Health Magazine ranks Miami Beach the nation’s No. 1 healthiest city.
Peterson Thelisma said he takes pride living in the fourth biggest city.
“I was born and raised in Miami and I couldn’t imagine myself living anywhere else,” said Thelisma, 22, a senior music education student.
Other students have the same pride for Miami because of the amount of tourists the city attracts.
Erin Mumphord, 18, a freshman pre-pharmacy candidate from Houston, said Miami’s beaches attract people from all over the country.
“I have never been to Miami before, but if I had to choose a vacation spot Miami would be number one on my list,” Mumphord said.
According to some people, the biggest misconception of Miami comes from how the city is portrayed by the media.
Chantel Kufeji, 18, a freshman education student from Miami, said the city goes far beyond the glitz and glamour that Hollywood portrays.
Kufeji said just like any other city in this nation, Miami has its good and bad sides.
“I wish people could know the real Miami,” Kufeji said. “South beach, video models and celebrities are fine, but until you cross that bridge I don’t think you can say that you have truly visited Miami.”
Emmy award-winning drama series such as “Nip/Tuck,” NBC’s “Good Morning America” and MTV’s 2005 “Video Music Awards” all took place in the city of Miami, also known as “the magic city.”
Some students said Miami has some of everything for everybody, and it’s a wonderful city to represent.
Ashley Johnson, 21, a fourth-year pharmacy student from Miami said she enjoys spending time with family and friends whenever she goes home.
“I love my city, “Johnson said. “When people think of Miami they think about beaches, but that’s not all we are. There’s nothing like going skating with my friends from high school and going to the movies or Santa’s Enchanted Forest. And nothing compares to our county fair. You have to be there every year.”