Abstract:
The purpose of this project was to enhance Ball State University's orientation programming by creating opportunities for students to learn about campus diversity. This was an important session to add, and adjustment to make to the orientation schedule, because of the significance of orientation for the transition of all first-year students to college. It is also important because of the diverse student population that exists in higher education today and all of the opportunities that having a diverse population creates.The methodology to build the program included several elements. A review of related literature focused on pertinent information about freshman orientation, the first-year student's transition to college, and diversity. The researcher also conducted interviews with orientation officials from two universities, as well as with orientation participants. Lastly, the researcher analyzed two examples of universities with varying diversity education sessions within orientation programming.This project created a learning experience focused on diversity that could be included in the summer, freshman orientation schedule at Ball State University. This learning experience is a 30 minute session that educates orientation participants about diversity on campus and multicultural opportunities that exist at Ball State University. The project also involves a revised orientation schedule to enhance diversity ideals. Lastly, the project includes facilitated conversations about diversity issues among orientation participants and student leaders.