Student Diversity Learning Essentials

The following article was written by Lara Noss, International Student at GWCC, Diversity Infusion Program Student Intern

When I first entered the Diversity Infusion Program I did not know what to expect, but let me tell you, you can be sure to expect everything!  You will hear so many different things; things that you would have never thought had to do with diversity.  Could you imagine what diversity has to do with a math class?  Well, believe me it does! 
Diversity is everywhere.  I am sure that everybody in the Program learned something new.  It is a very inspirational Program that gives you a lot of good opportunities to further your knowledge and skills.  The diversity project that each student intern must complete is an excellent opportunity to try something new and get insight into something you have never been involved with before.  For example, for my project I am writing different articles for the Diversity Infusion Program Newsletter as well as this article.  Through writing these articles I got to talk to many different people and hear many different ideas and thoughts, which was really interesting to me.  In addition, I am helping with a project at Gateway Community College, which encourages International Students to put information about their home country on a board for people to view. 
Inclusiveness is essential today.  You need to be open for the world.  Today, traveling around the world and living somewhere other than your country of origin is not unusual, and you are expected to be open to new things.  My experience is that you can benefit by listening to other people and hearing about other cultures, ideas, and thoughts.  And always remember – maybe the next time you will be the one who will depend on other people’s inclusiveness towards you.
I also learned about the Diversity Helpline – a service of the Diversity Infusion Program, and had the opportunity to interview the coordinator of the Helpline, Dr. Paul Grocoff. 

Ed. note: That interview is also featured in this edition of the Expressions newsletter.