Practices & Programs

Adapted from work done collaboratively by classmates in Student Services at the Middlebury Institute of International Studies 

Recommended Practices

  • Make your advising office a safe & brace space for your students .
  • Display infographics that address topics and concerns related to identity with information on any relevant centers  for specific identities on campus in academic offices/waiting rooms. It is important to find ways to support your students, even with simple methods of communicating information & resources.

Recommended Programs 

  • Multicultural Certificate / Multi-cultural pathways: Propose or promote the creation of or participation in multicultural certificates. Helping students integrate an understanding and appreciation for diversity in culture and identity into their degree plan/curriculum can weave  development related to sensitivity and openness into a student’s academic journey. The University of Missouri offers a multicultural certificate which highlights courses whose content integrates a high level of diverse perspectives (either cultural or otherwise related to varying identities such as sex, gender, race, religion etc.) 
  • Incorporating a peer advising/mentorship program into the student’s academic advising could provide space for students to receive additional support from a fellow student. Peer mentors could help newer students with course selection or other academic challenges that might come up.