A truly diverse college campus offers its students a unique fusion of connectedness and belonging through a variety of academic and social experiences. This is accomplished through a diverse student body and faculty, as well as a variety of course offerings and on-campus activities, groups, and resources.
A Diverse Student Body
Many individuals think of race first and foremost when they hear the term diversity, but a truly diverse college campus will accept and celebrate students of all ages, cultures, socioeconomic and academic backgrounds. Diverse campuses are interested in representing individuals from all walks of life, giving its student body the opportunity to learn about/from and appreciate those around them.
A Diverse Faculty
There are many other on-campus aspects that are equally vital to ensure students are offered an exceptional college experience including a diverse faculty, which will allow students to view the world through a variety of perspectives. Collaboration and conversation with diverse groups of fellow students and faculty allows students to witness multiple points of view, giving them communication and problem- solving skills they can utilize in their careers and beyond.
College instructors and professors can emphasize the importance of asking questions while encouraging students to add to the conversation by voicing their viewpoints and concerns. This is enlightening for many students – who have previously learned only through lectures and textbooks. When an individual realizes that his insight is valued, it often opens a world of possibilities.
Diversity in Course Offerings
A diverse college understands that a variety of course offerings must be accessible to students. This often means offering unique, nontraditional courses and areas of study that ensure students have options suited to their individual interests and goals.
Diverse Learning Experiences Beyond the Classroom
Truly diverse college campuses often offer study experiences abroad. This allows students to immerse themselves in different cultures while gaining valuable knowledge about the world they live in. On-
campus experiences, such as extracurricular activities, culturally diverse events, groups, and committees give students a sense of belonging and a desire to be an active participant on-campus. Posters, email invitations /announcements, and other marketing efforts spark students’ interest, making the promotion of these activities, committees, and groups essential in getting people excited and involved.
Students often make friends on-campus, and word-of- mouth about activities and events can lead to larger turnouts and a unique blend of attendees. By participating in these activities and groups, students can gain an understanding and appreciation for topics they may have previously had little knowledge of or interest in.
A Variety of Resources
Because everyone learns differently, diverse college campuses must offer a variety of available resources. On-campus study groups and peer tutoring services help many students learn. Instructors who are willing to meet with students one-on-one are also an integral part of the diverse college experience.
On Campus and Beyond
After graduating from a diverse college, many students feel they have a better understanding of the world and are more open-minded. Students often emerge from a diverse college experience with new interests, insights, and an increased appreciation for various perspectives.
A diverse college campus not only offers an enlightening college experience to its students; it prepare them for the future. Graduates are able to take their new skills and knowledge into their careers and personal lives. Therefore, a diverse college campus offers its students much more than an academic experience; it gives them life experience.
