Embracing Diversity on Campus: Creating a Richer College Experience

Diversity on college campuses is essential; it broadens our perspectives, encourages personal growth, and prepares us to engage meaningfully with others around us. Embracing diversity means more than simply acknowledging different backgrounds and cultures; it’s also about engaging with these differences in ways that you get introduced to a variety of perspectives and ways of living.

Showing off their food truck vouchers, students share their love of food at Luther College Family Weekend in 2024.

But, how do you engage with diversity? Adapting to a new environment filled with diversity can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve never been in such a setting before. One of the best strategies for easing into it is to focus on shared interests. Whether it’s discovering a mutual love for some hobby or similar music interest, finding common ground can lay the foundation for meaningful relationships. Once trust is established, exploring your differences becomes an exciting journey.

Respect is at the core of embracing diversity. When interacting with others, approach them with an open mind and a genuine interest in their unique experiences. Engaging in respectful communication helps build positive connections and encourages growth while challenging our own biases. Don’t be afraid to ask questions as long as they’re thoughtful and show your curiosity about others!

Engaging with diverse groups through clubs, sports, or community activities is a great way to embrace diversity. These experiences help you learn about different cultures and perspectives, build empathy, and make new friends. By getting involved, you expand your understanding of the world and have a more fulfilling college experience. 

Embracing Diversity and Finding Connection as an International Student

As an international student, coming to Luther College was both exciting and challenging. The Midwest, its culture, food, and climate was far removed from everything I knew. Speaking and writing papers in English added another layer of challenge sometimes. At first, it felt like I had to navigate a maze with no map. But over time, I realized the beauty of being in a new country lay in the opportunity to grow, adapt, and immerse myself in experiences that were completely different from my own.

Students celebrate their diverse cultures at the International Students and Allies fashion show in 2022.

The international student community at Luther played a significant role in helping me adjust. Meeting others who had similar experiences of being far from home gave me a sense of belonging. These connections provided me with both practical support and emotional comfort. Through shared meals, cultural celebrations, and conversations about our countries, I found a place where I could be myself while learning about others.

Decorah is a small town, with limited diversity in terms of food and cultural offerings. It can be challenging at times when I miss the tastes and flavors of home. However, I’ve found comfort in cooking with my friends and preparing recipes from home from time to time. This has made the experience much more enjoyable, as it allows me to bring a piece of home with me to Luther. As hard as being away from home can be, it’s always nice to rely on these connections and participate in diverse events, like the international fashion show, where international students are given the chance to celebrate their diversity and share their cultures with others. 

Conclusion: Top Tips for Being Comfortable with Diversity

Card games are a fun way to make friends with people in your residence hall.

1. Start by connecting over shared hobbies, sports, food, or music. This helps build strong relationships.
2. Join clubs or activities that bring people from different backgrounds together. It’s a great way to break down barriers and make new connections.
3. Be open to learning about others’ cultures and experiences—it can help you see the world in new ways.
4. Embrace diversity and differences in people, and enjoy the opportunity to learn about different food, languages, and cultures!

Embracing diversity encourages you to support inclusive communities. When you engage with people from different backgrounds, you will help create an environment where everyone feels welcome!

Students walk past the Luther College Bell toward the Union, fall 2024.