Do you like to meet people from different backgrounds and have conversations that help you gain a new perspective? There are many opportunities on campus for you to connect with people who have similar interests. From campus offices to student organizations and events throughout the semester, here are five easy ways to connect and learn with others if you are interested in culture and diversity.
1. Visit campus offices
There are several offices, departments and student services on campus that are focused on cultural learning. The Dennis Small Cultural Center (DSCC) provides opportunities to explore diversity through dynamic programs, events, entertainment and activities that encourage you to cross boundaries of cultural difference.
You can also check out the Center for Inclusion and Social Change (CISC) where you can build community, enhance your cultural awareness and gain new skills. Some of the offices and programs that are a part of CISC include the Pride Office, First-Generation program, Intercultural Engagement office and more. These programs host events throughout the semester that give you the chance to get involved with various groups and interests. Attend coffee chats, lectures and other presentations to meet new people and learn something new.
2. Be part of cultural opportunities
Whether you want to showcase your culture or learn about a new one, attend the CU International Festival (iFest) in April. The festival is the largest student-run event on campus; you can learn about different cultures through booths, performances, food and interactive activities. If you want to do more than just attend, join the iFest committee to help plan the event and be part of a diverse group of people celebrating cultural diversity on campus!
If you’re looking for ways to enrich your educational experience, develop your understanding of culture and diversity, attend events hosted by the Cultural Events Board (CEB). Past events have included speakers like Angelica Ross, Simu Liu, Isra Chaker, Viola Davis,Yusef Salaam & Raymond Santana and more. Visit the CEB Twitter page for up-to-date information on future events. If you want to get involved, you can apply to join the CEB to help bring speakers to campus in the future!
Another great way to get involved is to attend the Conference on World Affairs (CWA). This year, the CWA will take place on April 6-9, and is a free event open to everyone on campus and in the Boulder community. You can attend sessions and learn about different topics from a diverse group of experts and panelists from around the world. Be inspired by exchanging ideas, acquiring knowledge and gaining new insights.
3. Explore volunteer work and student organizations
The Volunteer Resource Center (VRC) has many opportunities for you to get involved. Their service programs work with diverse community organizations and give you the chance to connect with the community. Volunteering is a great way to learn about culture, identities and people’s lived experiences in communities with diverse populations.
If you are still looking for more opportunities, check out BuffConnect. Browse through more than 500 student organizations to find what is interesting to you. The list is organized by category to help you find and explore organizations. Try the “cultural and international” category to get started.
4. Attend events
A great way to meet people who share your interests and learn something together is by attending events. Be on the lookout for activities you can be a part of to learn more!
5. Try things on your own
If you’d like to explore on your own or with a friend, here are a few suggestions of activities you can do in your own time.
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Check out books or movies about people from cultures or backgrounds that are different from your own. University Libraries has a variety of collections you can choose from.
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Invite a friend and watch a foreign film together.
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Learn how to cook a dish from another country.
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Visit a local restaurant to try out a new type of cuisine.
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Attend a cultural event on campus.
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Learn a new language, either by taking a course for credit, or on your own with an app.
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When and if you can, travel to a different country to experience a different culture.
For more tips and resources for getting involved, visit the Student Affairs website, check out student events and be sure to follow @CUBoulderLife on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter!