Starting college can be both an exciting and overwhelming experience for students and their advocates. There are many tasks to complete, decisions to make and new experiences awaiting you. One common concern among incoming students is fitting in at the college they have chosen. Doing a bit of research can help you answer those questions. When you are starting college you may want to connect with others who share your values, interests and identities. At Kent State, there are opportunities to begin building connections through our 400+ student organizations and our Equity and Identity Centers and Services, which include:
- LGBTQ+ Center is dedicated to providing lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer plus students, staff and faculty with education, training, support and resources that cater to the gender and sexual minority community and their allies.
- Office of International Student Affairs is dedicated to helping international students discover meaningful ways to engage in campus life through events and programs to showcase the diversity of students.
- Student Accessibility Services provides accommodations to students with documented disabilities, allowing equal access to the university’s programs, services and classroom experiences.
- Student Multicultural Center focuses on connecting communities that affirm the culture of African-American, Native American, Latinx, Hispanic and Multiracial students. They provide advocacy, mentoring, guidance, education and resources.
- Women’s Center focuses on women, gender and diversity through advocacy and education.
- Center for Adult and Veteran Services is designed to help veteran, adult, parenting and military-connected students through their college journey.
Beginning at orientation, the university will offer multiple events that will allow you to explore and connect with these groups. You will be able to sign up to receive regular notifications of activities happening within the centers and across campus.
The best advice I can provide about fitting in is to be patient. It will take time to explore your interests and to find new ones. Be sure to ask for help if you are not sure or feel overwhelmed. Kent State staff and faculty can help you find your fit too!
Your Kent State classmates are ready to share their experiences with you. “You Belong Here” is not just a Kent State slogan, it is lived out in the Equity and Identity Centers.
Go Flashes!
Yvonna Washington-Greer
Assistant Vice-President of Equity, Identity, and Success