Student Interview #1

     I met with an African American male who did his undergraduate work at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio.  He is currently enrolled as a graduate student at BGSU.  At Miami University, the student explained that he felt like much more of a minority on campus.  He said that while the Miami University talked about being open and inclusive, in reality, that was not his perception.  He said that the Diversity Affairs office, for example, was located in the basement of a building that was not centrally located to the rest of the campus.  He said that students would never have found it had they not been actively seeking it out.  He recalls that the location of the office sent a strong message that Miami University did not value or care about students with diverse backgrounds.  In addition, he explained that there were very few African American faculty and staff members.  This, too, made the student feel like more of a minority.  He said that the Dean of Students, however, was an African American male and this made quite a positive impact on the student.  He aspired to hold a high profile administrative position at a college or university some day and this made him realize it is possible, even as a minority. 
     The student talked about first impressions that others have of him based on racial stereotypes.  He said most people assume he grew up in the inner city and was from a very low income family.  He also touched on how he feels when he is the minority in a classroom discussion.  He said he feels that others look to him as if he is speaking on behalf of all African American males.  He said that countless times throughout the day he thinks about his words and his actions and how others may perceive him.  He mentioned that if a white male speaks up, they are simply seen as speaking their mind.  When he speaks up, he is often perceived as being rude and outspoken.  He also explained that there is a general assumption that as an African American he should just be able to adapt to the dominant culture. 
     As a graduate student at BGSU, the student said he was so impressed by the campus resources available to minority students.  In addition, he liked the fact that there we so many active groups comprised of students from diverse backgrounds.  He also shared that he constantly thinks about whether or not he is assimilating too much into the dominant culture.  He has a strong desire to stay true to his cultural heritage.  At the same time, he touched on the challenges of going back to where he grew up.  With more education, he has become more aware and knowledgeable and things that his old friends do and say are no longer acceptable to him. 
     The student explained that campus support systems and resources for advocacy were instrumental in creating an environment where he felt comfortable with himself and his identity.  The Diversity office was a place where he felt safe to share and ask questions.  Staff who worked there were always willing to listen.