Iota Profile #3: I’m The Writer, He’s The DJ

 

Editor’s Note: I had the opportunity to meet this brother shortly after joining Iota when he came to DJ our First Annual Halloween Masquerade Ball during my time at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.  Since then, I’ve known him to be one of the most upstanding brothers in the Fraternity—and not just because of his height (6 foot 9).  He has been known in the brotherhood as the epitome of someone who is “Down For His…Brothers” (inside joke) whether it be roadtripping at a moment’s notice to assist a chapter in need, to being a spur in the side when enthusiasm might wane among members. 

Without further ado, meet Brian Eskridge, also known as DJ B-Real.

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Please introduce yourself to the readers.

Name: Brian Eskridge.  Line Name/Chapter of Origin: Deuce Insanity, Beta Nu Chapter (Northern Illinois University), Halloween 1996.

Notable Fraternity Accomplishments: Dean of Charter Line for Eta Lambda Chapter.

 What drew your interest to Iota Phi Theta?

I liked Iota for [the] endless possibilities.  There weren’t any stereotypes–just a blank canvas for us to make something how we wanted. And we stood out because our whole line was diverse.

What is your current job title?

2 current jobs: Clerk at University of Chicago Book Warehouse and Production Assistant Manager at Collegiate World Entertainment.  [I am also a] DJ (DJ B-Real) [and] sound assistant, and have various other projects.

Please name an aspiration you hope to accomplish within the next twenty years.

[In the] next 20 years I hope to go out of the country … Possibly to DJ!

How has Iota helped you in your endeavors, personal or professional?

Because of Iota I have networked in many ways, saw many more cities, gained some very good close friends, learned more people skills and more about myself.  I’ve gained many skills as a leader growing up in this organization as a young man. This has allowed me to expand my mindset and diversity of subjects, and [has led to] me doing many things in life and not just being stuck in one direction.

What would you say to anyone considering membership in Iota Phi Theta Fraternity or Iota Sweethearts?

To anyone considering this family-I would say we have the good as well as the bad, like any family, but as long as you try to make the good happen it can for you and anyone with you. It’s not for the faint of heart or mind and not for those who aren’t ready for a lifelong commitment.

 

(Photos courtesy of B. Eskridge-Facebook)