Student Initiatives Build Community Across Schools

Universities and schools are using clubs, shared activities and support programs to help students feel connected and included. At the University of Alabama at Birmingham, a freshman documentary screening about civic engagement was paired with a campus event showcasing hundreds of clubs and community opportunities. At Northwestern, international students describe affinity groups as sources of cultural connection, friendship and practical support, including career resources. A Scottish student also helped horticulture students across multiple campuses connect through an online group and an in-person learning event. Meanwhile, a school in Vietnam combines counseling with lessons on respecting differences, aiming to build trust, empathy and a safer environment for students.