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Usually when the term diversity comes up in a conversation, most often people think of diversity as accepting the religious beliefs of a another or showing respect for someones race or nationality. When I hear the term diversity, I think about how everyone around the world no matter their race, IQ, ethnicity, or sexual orientation deserves to be judged based on something they cannot control. As an female African American LGBTQ student I understand first hand what it's like to be ridiculed for your sexual preference or ethnicity.
In my experience, the world can be an awful and cruel place when it comes to being unique and different. The world we live in today is more about being on the bandwagon than hopping off and taking their own path in life. During my freshman and sophomore years of high school, my fellow peers thought it would be a good idea to spread around school that I was the black lesbian girl who tried wanted to be white. Their accusation was pure idiocy due to the fact that I never try to be someone I'm not. I've never been one for changing the way I look or talking a certain in order to fit in. It doesn't make since. Growing up in today's society, everyone feels that fitting in is more important than standing out. I'd rather stand out and be seen that blend in and be normal.
What I feel that I can contribute to an diverse college community is a open-mind to all religions, ethnicities, backgrounds and beliefs. I also feel that I can provide an understanding ear along with a few words of wisdom. I believe that everyone deserves to be comfortable around others that may not believe in or support ones religion or belief, but they should be respectful of that person.
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