Bluedeathvalley.com: How long have you been a cheerleader for A&T?

Latoya: I started cheering for A&T last year on the competition squad.

I understand you are originally from New Jersey. Was it a big adjustment to come to school down here in North Carolina?

Latoya: Yes, relocating to North Carolina from New Jersey was a very big adjustment! Living in New Jersey is a faster pace than being in the South. We have the benefits of going right across the bridge to Philadelphia and even going to shop in New York with ease. Down here, there is only one mall and that’s kind of hard for me since I love to shop. But I must say we do not have the Cookout fast food chain up North, and I love eating there now.

What made you decide to attend A&T?

Latoya: After going on an HBCU tour, I saw that A&T was one of the most modernized universities around. A&T had a really clean and presentable campus and the business school here is great. In addition, the cheerleading team won the MEAC Championship the year before I came and I knew I wanted to cheer.

What was it like to win the MEAC cheerleading title last year?

Latoya: Winning the title was amazing!! I feel like all the hard work, long hours, bruises and tears finally paid off. The smiles mixed with that feeling of success and victory out-weighs all the pain you endure along the way.

What do you think makes A&T cheerleaders stand out from the rest?

Latoya: The A&T cheerleading team has a unique style that others try to imitate. We work hard all year round to be great and we all possess the mind of a champion. Pain is temporary but pride is forever!!

How often do you guys practice?

Latoya: We practice almost every day! Although Mondays are considered to be our day off, we have weight training on Monday and Wednesday at 7:00 am. Tuesday and Thursday we have practice at 6:00am. We also go to tumbling classes on Wednesday evenings. Friday we have practice in the evening at 6pm. But depending on the season we may have a game on an usual practice day.

What is the most rewarding thing about being an A&T cheerleader?

Latoya: The most rewarding thing is to be able to serve as a role model to all the little girls that watch us at the games. I never knew how excited they get!

Everyone is now aware of the fierce rivalry you have with the cheerleaders from Winston-Salem State. What is your account of the incident that took place at this year’s football game?

Latoya: Well, I won’t go into detail but I will just say that I am proud of us as a team! We did a great job with the battle and even though we can no longer continue it, we went out with a bang. I will just say that we are going to take our competitive rivalry and meet them at the MEAC championships. May the best team win!!

What is the most memorable athletic event that you have ever had the chance to cheer at?

Latoya: That would have to be our homecoming game against Morgan State this year. All of the alumni cheerleaders came back for homecoming and we got a chance to see the different generations and how A&T cheerleading has evolved.

A&T women are world-renowned for their beauty and elegance. How would you describe your own personal style?

Latoya: I feel that my style is a classy, urban mix. I like to be different! I have made scarves into belts and shirts. I feel that it’s all about how you rock your clothes. The way you carry yourself affects your style. Confidence is the key!

What is something that very few people know about you?

Latoya: I can actually sing, but I’m shy about it. I also like to cook and learn new recipes.

What is your favorite song right now?

Latoya: “Turning Me On (Off)” by Keri Hilson

What are your future plans after you leave A&T?

Latoya: After graduating from A&T, I plan to work for a marketing firm or a company to gain some hands-on experience. Then after a year or two, I plan to go to graduate school at the University of Pennsylvania. Later on, I want to own my own business!

What was your reaction when you found out you had been chosen to become a Blue Death Valley Girl?

Latoya: I felt honored that I was selected to be featured on this website. I wondered, “wow, what made them pick me?!” But really I’m just so excited that I was chosen! Thank you so much.

You can't celebrate Aggie Pride without first paying tribute to the beautiful and talented women who make our unviversity great. As a new feature on this site, we will begin to spotlight some of A&T's finest females and give them the props they deserve. If you or someone you know has what it takes to become the next Blue Death Valley Girl, please contact Darren Toler at dtoler@bluedeathvalley.com