Fostering a Sense of Belonging as an International Student Ambassador
Introduction to the Role
Recently, I have taken up the position of an International Student Ambassador at the University of Kansas. My primary task is to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for international students to belong and thrive within the university community. This role demands more than just being a face of the university; it requires fostering a deep sense of belonging amongst students who may feel like strangers in a new land.
The core principle guiding all these tasks is to ensure that every international student feels they are part of something bigger than themselves. But more crucially, it is also about providing the courage to stand resilient and true to their identity. As Brene Brown puts it, “Belonging is being part of something bigger than yourself. But it’s also the courage to stand alone and to belong to yourself above all else.”
Understanding the Concept of Belonging
From Brown's perspective, fitting in is about adjusting who you are to fit a certain environment. On the other hand, belonging means remaining true to oneself without the need to compromise. This distinction is paramount in the role I take on as an International Student Ambassador.
My job involves reaching out to prospective international students and providing support to current ones. However, the crux of my responsibility is to instill a sense of safety and acceptance in all students. The University of Kansas must be a place where students can breathe freely, express their cultural backgrounds without fear, and find a community that accepts them for who they are. The culture and background of every student matter, and we must ensure their journey at KU is free from judgment and harassment.
Creating a Welcoming Environment
To create a sense of belonging, we must start from the ground up. Proactive engagement is key. This involves organizing and participating in events, training sessions, and workshops to help students build connections with each other and the university. We need to make a concerted effort to embrace diversity and celebrate cultural differences.
But it also requires us to facilitate peer support networks. These networks can provide a voice for students to share their experiences, seek advice, and find comfort in knowing they are not alone. Peer support is crucial in building a strong community that helps students overcome challenges and feel valued and supported. This can be achieved through buddy programs, online forums, or regular meet-up sessions.
Another essential aspect is to create a supportive environment for students to express their thoughts and concerns. This can be done through open and inclusive spaces on campus where students feel safe to voice their opinions without fear of judgment. Promoting diversity and inclusivity initiatives is also vital.
Conclusion
As an International Student Ambassador, my role is not just to represent the University of Kansas but to act as a beacon of hope and support for our international student community. By fostering a safe space where students can feel accepted for who they are, we can ensure that they thrive not only academically but also personally. This journey towards building a strong sense of belonging starts with each one of us embracing differences and coming together to create a harmonious and culturally rich campus environment.