Belonging at AIC

Transcript

Let’s talk to Saniya. She’s a senior studying healthcare management and she’s very active on campus. She has worked with other students in diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging initiatives. Let’s hear what she has to say about it. Hey Saniya.

– Thanks for the warm welcome, Alex. Hey everyone. When it was time to search for a college I was looking for a school with rigorous academic programs and a diverse student body. AIC is a close-knit college that focuses on fostering relationships between students and faculty to initiate both academic and social successes. In my first year, I was immersed in AIC’s accepting environment when I joined the organization, Student of Color Working Group. This student-led diversity group gives students of color the chance to have conversations with the Dean of Students and deepen the representation that students need on campus. With the backing of our supportive advisors, we developed and designed a lounge specifically for BIPOC students. The greatest benefit to pursuing my healthcare management degree at AIC is knowing that our small class structures allow my professors to get to know who I truly am which creates long lasting professional relationships. In the Center for Student Engagement you can find a diverse pool of students who are eager to accept you for who you are. From organizations like PRIDE, Persons Ready in Defense of Ebony, LASO, Latin American Student Organization, Student of Color Working Group, and PLUS, our LGBTQ+ organizations students can quickly find their safe haven on campus. My roles on campus as leader of a student-led diversity group, orientation leader and apex peer mentor who helps new students find their way towards personal and professional success allow me to build great friendships. My biggest piece of advice is to be yourself and put yourself out there, because we are truly one hive, one family. My time at AIC has provided me with a plethora of opportunities, from presenting at a national conference on diversity and inclusion, to developing a better sense of self. AIC has given me the tools that I need to be a prominent leader in my professional career. Back to you, Alex.

– Wow, Saniya. You really put yourself out there. I love how you have come together with so many other students to not just form strong relationships but really become a leader. It sounds like students like you make sure everyone here on campus is seen and accepted. Great job and thank you, Saniya.