Diversity and Inclusivity in the University
I interviewed four students in different years and taking different courses from the university. I inquired about their views on the topic of inclusivity and diversity in the school. I investigated whether they believe there is inclusivity and diversity in school or not. I also inquired about their ideas on how to promote inclusivity if they think it is necessary. Li Wei, a senior student at the university, majoring in Bachelor of Science in Nursing, indicated the school is attempting to be inclusive and diverse, but it still needs to more. L. Wei (personal interview, August 19, 2020) claims that this is the only way to ensure all students feel safe and they belong. Li Wie is an international student from Ningbo, Zhejiang China. She believes the school has tried to be inclusive and diverse by giving international students like her a chance to study there. L. Wei (personal interview, August 19, 2020) points out that there are no activities that reflect Asian culture like sports. She proposes, creation of support communities for different races where so students like her can fell a sense of belonging
Michael Smith, a freshman students from Orlando, Florida USA, is majoring in Business management. Smith feels that the school is inclusive and diverse compared to most Universities as there is equality in school. Students have the opportunity to choose the course to take without any preference. M. Smith (personal interview, August 20, 2020) reveals that as a first-year student, he felt included and welcomed when he was elected in student leadership. M. Smith (personal interview, August 20, 2020) indicates that the leadership consisted of people of different ages, genders, sexual orientations and races. He commends the school for a great job and encourages them to continue with such values as it promotes an environment of outstanding performance.
Ann McCarthy is a fresh year student from Texas undertaking Civil engineering. She asserts that the school has done an excellent job in inclusivity and diversity in the classroom but has slacked behind in cultural representation. She indicates that she feels comfortable and encouraged when she sees multiple ladies taking the engineering course. According to (personal interview, August 20, 2020), most engineering courses are considered male courses, but she doesnt feel this in this school. She indicates that lecturers also use inclusive language and teaching methods in the class. A. McCarthy (personal interview, August 20, 2020) indicates that school, however, doesnt factor different religions. It is a Christian school that represents and supports mostly the Christian beliefs (A. McCarthy, personal interview, August 20, 2020). She suggests the school hold culture events for various culture to represent everybody. She likewise recommended training on cultural awareness throughout the school to learn and appreciate other cultures and religions.
I also interviewed Matthew Cray, a senior year student majoring in Finance. He is from Los Angeles, South California, USA. M. Cray (personal interview, August 20, 2020) claims that there is still much to do in the school to achieve inclusivity and diversity. Cary indicates that inclusivity is where their absence of discomfort and difference is appreciated. He observed microaggression in school by some students where they use hostility and abusive racial comment towards certain races. M. Cray (personal interview, August 20, 2020) states that some are intentional while others are unintentional and either way they have a psychological impact on students. Cray adds that they also affect learning, as one cannot study with stress. He calls upon the school to take action to stop microaggression, and in turn, promote inclusivity. He suggests training of students and staff on microaggression and how to avoid them. He also recommends lecturers calling out to students who are engaging in microaggression and taking action on such cases.