SAN JOSE (KPIX 5) — An African-American San Jose State University student who said he was the victim of hate crimes by his dorm mates has filed a $5 million claim against the university and other parties.

The claim, filed on behalf of 18-year-old freshman Donald “D.J.” Williams Jr. is not a lawsuit, but is a precursor that allows for settlement discussions to take place in an effort to avoid a lawsuit.

Carl Douglas, a Beverly Hills attorney representing the student, wrote in the claim that Williams was subjected to “intentional, malicious, offensive, and racist assaults, batteries and humiliation by several of his fellow suite-mates.”

“It is really amazing that he has been able to endure so much,” Douglas told KPIX 5. “He’s a proud strong American, and he is not going to let these bullies, this harassment, and these roommates deter him from his dream.”