UNI is filled with a variety of people who come from all different walks of life. Because of this, it is crucial for the university to provide resources that allow every student to feel safe and thrive, especially those who may not feel well-represented on campus. 

One of the first resources that UNI presents to underrepresented students is Jump Start. This is an orientation program that is geared toward incoming students of color or those who have been in AVID or TRIO programs in the past. 

Although this program is run before students’ first year at UNI begins, returning students can apply to be on staff as a guide. While preference is given to previous Jump Start participants, the most important qualification is that the applicant can work positively and effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds. 

While Jump Start is only in effect before the school year begins, there are many clubs and organizations that also aim to give support to underrepresented or marginalized students. The African Union, Asian Student Union, Black Student Union, UNIdos and Indigenous Student Organization were formed with the purpose of increasing people’s knowledge of their culture and making students feel celebrated and heard. 

Multicultural groups such as All Voices Heard in Music, Illuminate Dance Troupe and Multicultural Theatrical Society are clubs that strive to expose students to diverse cultures and experiences through the arts. 

The Multicultural Business Leaders Association helps students navigate the professional world and International Student Promoters aid potential students coming from all over the world. 

Not only are all of these organizations great resources for underrepresented students, but they also give students a chance to be leaders and resources to others. 

Many of these student unions are facilitated inside the Center of Multicultural Education, most commonly known as the CME. The CME is located right above the Maucker Union food court and strives to provide a welcoming and supportive environment for marginalized students. 

One way they do this is by providing satellite hours where students can come to the CME at designated times and receive support from the following: Academic Advising, College of Education, College of Business, Financial Aid, Career Services and Counseling Center. The designated times for each campus resource can be found on UNI’s CME website. 

Many students will find that some of their greatest support systems are the friends they have made during their college experience. However, if anyone is in search of professional care, the UNI Health Clinic offers personal, group and couples counseling. One of the mental health therapists on staff is also trained as a diversity outreach specialist. 

If anyone experiences any bias or discrimination they are encouraged to go to the Office of Compliance & Equity Management, also known as the OCEM. Their page is also available through UNI’s website. The OCEM handles reports of discrimination and harassment while also overseeing prevention efforts on campus. 

For many students, college is considered a clean slate and an opportunity to truly find their identity. Although each person’s path is different, that does not mean that anyone has to go through their journey alone. 

UNI’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion page states, “From supportive faculty, staff and services to diverse student groups dedicated to cultivating a culture of inclusion, it’s all here to prove that you matter.”