Diverse Ethnic Groups

Although he's Caucasian, Carl Nelson is highly involved in student organizations most wouldn't expect to see him in.

The senior majoring in Africana Studies, is a great example of how diversity plays an integral part in student life. Nelson is involved in five organizations, which include Latino Student Union and Black Student Union where he is the chair of community service.

When Nelson was asked how he feels about being involved in multiple organizations that are not based around his race and ethnicity, he said, "Growing up in a community of minority have learned that being involved here with other ethnicities like a big melting pot is how I grew up."

Nelson considers himself very popular on campus and much of a socialite.

"I tend to hear students ask questions like why am I a part of these organizations when I'm not a part of that ethnicity and I think it's very ignorant of them to think that way but most of the time it's just freshmen who don't understand why diversity is so important," Nelson said.

Nelson is Caucasian and of Irish, British and German heritage but enjoys studying African American culture.

"I chose to become a scholar of Africana studies because there is not enough African American history teachers and people need to learn history from all different cultures in order to stop racism," said Nelson.

On a campus where diversity is stressed, organizations are not concerned about race or ethnicity, but togetherness is what makes a organization strong.

"When looking for an organization, find the one that best fits you and what your ultimate mission is in getting [your] own personal message across," Nelson said.

Also, be very resourceful and do your research on that organization to see what characteristics you have that can help it grow. No organization needs a member who is not solely about the betterment and it growth.

At UT, togetherness is something that is a work in progress for all organizations. It won't happen overnight.

However, this alone is what connects all students from different walks of life together.

"To anyone who hasn't gotten involved on campus, get involved and learn about your own culture and even the cultures of others," said Nelson.

If you did not get the opportunity to become a member of an organization this year, there is always time.

Be sure to attend any last events that will be going on during the final days of this semester and try to keep in touch with individual that are already members. This is a great way to perk up those networking skills and even a good way to create a bond with those in the community and at UT.