4 Essential Tips for Embracing Diversity in Community College

by Chad Agrawal

embracing diversity in community collegeCommunity college is an exciting time for those who are beginning their college careers. It is a time of discovery, growing, learning and making new friends. Despite living in close proximity, students come from many different backgrounds and cultures. The community college population is often very diverse, no matter if you choose the best nursing schools or the best liberal arts colleges.

The thought of meeting new people who come from different cultures can make a person very nervous and unsure of how to proceed. Here are a few tips that can break the ice and help you overcome your apprehension. After all, the last thing you want to do is confine yourself to the same people you knew in high school. That wouldn't be very fun.

Be Friendly

If you are friendly, there's a good chance others will return that attitude. If you are nervous about those of different cultures, you could start with a simple smile or greeting. This can lay the foundation for more friendly encounters.

Be Easy-Going

If you show that you are relaxed and easy to get along with, you will naturally attract others. You have to keep in mind that students who are of a different culture may be just as nervous as you are. Therefore, if they see you as someone who isn't pushy or opinionated, it will make it easier for them to approach you and want to get to know you. Put forth the effort to make the first move. If others see you as extremely shy, they may think you are unapproachable. Being the first to say hello is a way for you to let other students know you are interested in getting to know them.

Take An Interest In Other Cultures

When attending college with a diverse student body, you will see many facets of different cultures. It may be a certain way one student dresses or wears his or her hair. They may have religious rituals that they openly practice. You may notice that they follow a specific diet. You may even be curious about some of the things you're seeing. Why not ask a student about his or her culture? This can open up a lively conversation that could lead to a great friendship. Your new friend may even have some questions for you!

Offer To Help

You might notice that another student is having trouble grasping a concept of a particular class that you may also have. This may be because he or she comes from a culture that has different views on the subject. If you understand the solution to the problem, you could offer your advice on the subject. A helpful person is often viewed by others as one who is a good friend.

Do you have any ideas to embrace diversity?

Please tell us about your success meeting new people and getting to know different cultures in college. If you have any more helpful tips, please leave a comment below and share with everyone! I look forward to hearing your thoughts 🙂

This post was written by Chad Agrawal

Chad Agrawal is the founder of CCTS, helping students transfer from community college to Ivy League, tier 1 or anywhere else by following this community college guide.

{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }

ct March 25, 2013 at 12:39 am

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