Charell Newman has always had a passion for fashion. Courtesy photo
Charell Newman, a junior psychology major from Sacramento, Calif., is a model for Strut LA and she loves what she does.
“I like the feeling of wearing something stylish and showing it off to other people,” Newman said of her modeling.
Newman has been a student at Grambling State University since the fall 2016 and has come a long way to be at the place where “everybody is somebody.”
Newman said Grambling is offering her the space and opportunity to work on herself.
“At like 13 years old parents sat me down and asked me what I wanted to be when I grow up, I had no idea at the time, but both of my parents supported whatever dream I had, I said modeling, they are my rock when I can’t help but float away," Newman said.
After college Newman wants to pursue a career being a counselor to teens in high school or middle school, but for now she wants to make the outfit of her dreams.
“I always had a passion for fashion and all the things it takes to make a shirt or a pair of pants, so why not be a designer while I’m in school,” Newman said. “I’ve got nothing but time on my hands.”
Newman is working on her own collection of clothing for the weather down south.
“I like the weather here, you never know what you’re gonna get,” Newman said.
Newman came to Grambling in part because of the relatively rural setting of the campus.
“I wanted to get away from the busy city life I had in California and Grambling seemed like the right place for me,” Newman said. “Plus, Grambling was one of the first school that responded to my application and your tuition is way more affordable. It seemed like it was meant to be.”
Newman said that she has met some wonderful people at Grambling but is still cautious.
“I’m glad my dad let me come out here,” Newman said. “It’s doing a lot for my self-esteem, and it’s also helping me get ready for my future career.”
Thus far Newman is happy to be building memories at Grambling like a memorable block party held during her freshman year.
“It reminded me that we can still have a good time even if we come together,” Newman said.
Newman said she also likes to draw and go to the movies with her friends when she has time between practice and homework.
“I really like going to school here, everyone is so nice compared to back home,” Newman said.
EDITOR'S NOTE: An earlier version of this article incorrectly stated Newman's parent were divorced. This has been corrected.