Cultural Issues and Diversity

Student Counseling Services is committed to supporting and promoting diversity in its broadest sense. Our services are culturally sensitive so that people of every background are respected and appreciated in our office. We want all students to feel their dignity and worth as human beings affirmed, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, age, disability, and religious beliefs. Our staff is sensitive and respectful of human differences and works to promote an atmosphere of respect and trust.

Some students may experience difficulties due to differences, resulting in low self-esteem, depression, and anxiety. Some students may even experience the harmful effects of prejudice, discrimination or racism. International students may experience trouble adjusting to a new culture with different values, traditions and customs.

Help

Talking to a professional about these struggles can be helpful. A counselor can provide support and encouragement as well as an atmosphere of safety and trust where students can cope with difficulties. Counseling can give students an opportunity to explore their feelings about problems they may be experiencing, cope with these difficulties and develop solutions.

Illinois State University is committed to creating a community free of discrimination and prejudice, and respectful of diversity.

• Office for Diversity and Affirmative Action provides assistance to individuals who have concerns regarding discrimination and harassment.
• International Student and Scholar Services Unit in the Office of International Studies and Programs serves hundreds of international students from around the world with Immigration, academic, social and educational needs. The unit is also engaged in outreach through community-based groups.

ISU Resources

• Voices of Discovery
• Office for Equal Opportunity, Ethics, and Access
• International Studies and Programs
• Multi-Ethnic Cultural and Co-Curricular Programming Advisory Committee (MECCPAC)
• Registered Student Organizations with Diversity Focus at ISU

Coping With College Articles (PDF)

• Embracing Multiculturalism: Addressing Hate Crimes
• That’s Not Alright With Me
• Diversity - Why should we care?
• Being African-American on a Predominantly Caucasian Campus
• Diversity: Now's Your Chance!
• Negotiating a New Culture
• Diversity Among Us
• How can International and U.S. Students Develop a Better Connection?