By Rose Pemberton/reporter
Once NE student Nicholas Richardson understood what his needs were and realized what truly mattered to him, he said he entered the Intercultural Collaborate Network to help others get there as well.
Many students feel excluded and don’t feel like they make any difference, Shelly Heidman said.
“If students are dealing with this, how do we address it?” NE intercultural network coordinator Marjeanna Burge said.
Students who do not feel culturally or ethnically engaged are the targets for this program, she said.
“That’s what we’re trying to do, make a safe space,” Burge said.
Heidman shared a story about a student who was telling her he felt as if he didn’t fit in anywhere.
“Yes, you do, you fit in here,” Heidman said.
Burge and Heidman emphasized bonding with others through this program.
“A bond forms when you talk a little deeper,” said Burge.
Burge said when listening to what others are going through, try to learn from that experience.
She described the network as a sorority or fraternity. All students have to do to be included is sign a commitment form.
“It’s a big learning opportunity and something great to put on your resume,” Heidman said.
This program is a good way to interact with one another and support diversity, Heidman said.
