Jahliel to Elizabeth: As the host of The Level Up Experiment, can you describe the premise of this competition series?

Elizabeth: The Level Up Experiment takes rising juniors and seniors from HBCUs on a transformative journey from the classroom to the boardroom. These weekly challenges test their leadership, communication, and collaboration skills, all while pushing them to confront their fears, weaknesses, and pain points. It’s a real-world rite of passage that prepares them for life beyond college, where their performance is judged by Black executives, entrepreneurs, and HBCU alumni.

Elizabeth to Jahliel: Can you share a bit about your HBCU experience and how it led you to create HBCU 101?

Jahliel: My time at Virginia State University was life-changing. VSU became my second family. The community there shaped me into who I am today. I created HBCU 101 to shift the narrative around HBCUs and highlight the greatness these institutions produce. Too often, the media distorts the image of HBCUs, and I wanted to build a platform to show the world the real success stories.

Jahliel to Elizabeth: What’s your connection to HBCUs?

Elizabeth: HBCUs are deeply rooted in my family. My parents graduated from Tennessee State University and Howard Law, and they’re both professors at TSU now. My sister also attended TSU, and many of my relatives have HBCU ties. Growing up around HBCUs shaped my creativity and gave me my first media experiences, which prepared me for the career I’m in today.

Elizabeth to Jahliel: How do you approach the topics and guests featured on HBCU 101 to ensure they resonate with the HBCU community and beyond?

Jahliel: I try to find guests who attended different HBCUs and have unique career paths. The goal is to highlight both household names and people creating change in their communities. It’s important to show young people that success at an HBCU can come in any field. Whether you’re a doctor, entrepreneur, or artist, HBCUs foster greatness.

Jahliel to Elizabeth: What kind of challenges can audiences expect to see on The Level Up Experiment?

Elizabeth: Students will face challenges that test their time management, innovative thinking, and ability to pivot under pressure. They’ll also work on their presentation skills, leadership qualities, and communication. Plus, they’ll gain insights from a range of professionals—entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, acting coaches, and more. It’s about more than just the competition; it’s about real growth.

Elizabeth to Jahliel: With 10 seasons of HBCU 101 under your belt, what are some memorable moments that have left a lasting impact?

Jahliel: I’ve been fortunate to have many impactful guests, but a few moments stand out. When Will Packer joined us in season one, he was incredibly appreciative of what we were building. Lance Gross nearly brought me to tears when he talked about the influence Tyler Perry had on his career. And interviewing Terrence J was surreal because I’ve looked up to him since his 106 & Park days.

Jahliel to Elizabeth: How does The Level Up Experiment reshape the narrative around Black entrepreneurship and HBCU students in the business world?

Elizabeth: This show highlights the diverse skills and innovative thinking of HBCU students, emphasizing their ability to excel in any business environment. We’re showing the world that Black entrepreneurs and HBCU graduates aren’t just participants—they’re leaders and change-makers. It’s about inspiring confidence and proving that these students are equipped for success beyond the classroom.

Elizabeth to Jahliel: How do you see the future of HBCU representation in media evolving, and what role does HBCU 101 play in that?

Jahliel: With social media and content creation becoming more dominant, I believe HBCUs will continue to get the recognition they deserve. HBCU 101 plays a crucial role in that, sharing success stories and proving that HBCUs are breeding grounds for greatness. The show is just the beginning, and I hope we continue to lead the charge in showing the true potential of HBCUs.

Jahliel to Elizabeth: How will you bring your unique perspective and experiences to hosting The Level Up Experiment?

Elizabeth: My approach goes beyond just hosting. I want to mentor these students and build authentic connections with them. By sharing my own experiences and guiding them through their challenges, I aim to make the show not only entertaining but also impactful for everyone involved—students and viewers alike.

Elizabeth to Jahliel: As an HBCU alumnus, what advice would you offer to the students competing in The Level Up Experiment?

Jahliel: Keep shooting your shot, and don’t stop knocking on doors. The ball won’t always go in, but persistence pays off. Remember, no one can see your dreams as clearly as you do, so keep chasing them and trust in God’s plan.

Jahliel to Elizabeth: What are your hopes for the future of The Level Up Experiment and its impact on the HBCU community?

Elizabeth: I want the show to inspire students to embrace lifelong learning and chase their dreams fearlessly. I hope The Level Up Experiment helps viewers connect with the students on a personal level, creating a sense of community and family. Ultimately, I hope the show’s impact extends beyond our contestants to touch the hearts of HBCU students everywhere, encouraging them to pursue their aspirations.

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