1. Experiencing Difference

2. Acknowledge Differences
The diversity you encounter will depend on your own background and your unique college experience.
Diversity involves more than just race, it also includes:
Socioeconomic status
Cultural background
Religion
Age
Sexual orientation

3. Acknowledge Differences (continued)
Keep an open mind.
However you encounter diversity and difference at college, your past matters.
Keep in mind how your past may influence your reaction to the differences you encounter at college.
You may not always agree with others, but you should listen carefully and recognize that others students’ backgrounds have influenced who they are, just as your background has shaped you.

4. Acknowledge Differences (continued)
Challenge stereotypes.
Most of us harbor stereotypes, even if they are subconscious judgments that we don’t admit to.
Work toward challenging and overcoming the stereotypes you have brought with you to college.
Understand and respect difference.
Find support around issues of diversity by engaging in meaningful activities and connecting with campus resources.
Be open and willing to learn from our differences.

5. Find Support on Campus Join meaningful clubs or organizations.
Examples:
Black Student Union
Arab Students Club
Latin American Network
Chinese Student Association
Native American Student Association
Campus Crusade for Christ
Asian American Campus Ministry
Jewish Student Union
Hindu Student Association
Pride Alliance
University Democrats
College Republicans

6. Quick Tip Understand the Greek Community
If you are interested in fraternities or sororities that have a specific focus or mission, take time to understand the cultures that exist within each Greek organization on campus and determine what is expected if you want to become a member. These organizations can provide opportunities to build strong connections with others and to give back to the community.

7. Find Support on Campus (continued)
Look for campus resources.
Examples:
Center for Multicultural Advancement
Center for Women
Office of Diversity and Inclusion
Office of Multicultural Affairs
College Cultural Center
Veteran Services Office
Office of Religious and Spiritual Life
Disability Services Office
Diversity Advisory Committee
Council on the Status of Diversity

8. Learn about Your College’s Diversity Resources

9. Quick Tip Build Connections
If you have minority status at your college, it’s normal to experience feelings of loneliness or to wonder if you belong. Remember that clubs, associations, and campus resources dedicated to diversity can help you build a meaningful community that makes you feel more at home.

11. Learn from Differences
Authentic communication
Being able to communicate authentically tears down the barriers between people, which are often based on fear.
Mutual respect
When you listen closely to other people and understand what experiences have shaped their lives, you’ll be able to understand who they are and the differences they bring to the table.

12. 5 Strategies to Bridge Differences
Organize a study session.
Plan an outing or activity.
Share food that is traditional or special in your life.
Share pictures.
Open up about struggles you have experienced in your past and at college.