If URI Were More Diverse...

What would happen if the University of Rhode Island were a more diverse institution?

As a student of color at a majority white university, it’s a question that many of us ask ourselves.

What would it feel like to be completely surrounded by students in class who share a similar cultural background as yourself? Would I feel more motivated to succeed? Would the retention rate of multicultural students increase? Would more students of color feel inclined to attend the University of Rhode Island? Would it be easier to educate ignorant students who don’t understand the impact of engaging in cultural appropriation, making racially insensitive remarks, etc.?

Diversity, in regard to college campuses, can easily be defined by the variety of people and experiences students will encounter. Research suggests that attending a diverse university can create a more rich education experience. Exposure to different cultural backgrounds, gender identities, and varying ideas can help students grow and expand their mindset. This will be a particularly useful skill to take into the working world as we advance after graduation.

Ethnic diversity breakdown among undergraduate students at URI.

If the University of Rhode Island were more diverse...

I would walk into class and be surrounded by students of all different walks of life. Professors would have no option but to foster an inclusive class setting and facilitate conversations about the impact of race in respect to representation in each student’s field of interest. Microaggression workshops and diversity training would be embedded in our freshman seminar course, URI 101. I will be prepared to work with every student, regardless of their cultural background, economic standing, religion, gender, or sexuality. I would spend less time worrying whether my peers are supportive of my identity.