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The Student Multicultural Center is preparing to kick off the 2021-22 academic year with the in-person return of Kupita/Transiciones (K/T). The four-day orientation, from August 18-22, is designed to help facilitate a smooth transition to �鶹ӰԺ State for first-year and transfer students of color.

Another event hit by last year’s pandemic ultimately forcing the SMC to pivot to a virtual setting, this year’s K/T will enable participants to build those ever-important relationships while, at the same time, making the most of their experience throughout the four days. The orientation outcomes include helping students feel connected to the campus, feel affirmed in their cultural identity, appreciate diverse cultures, and identify opportunities for engagement and resources.

“Having a chance to connect with the incoming students and allow them to engage with our campus [is important],” said SMC Director Mike Daniels. “It is one of those programs that will be memorable, and you will find significant friendships.”

According to Daniels, 241 students are expected to participate. He is looking forward to making this the most memorable of all.

“This will be the best K/T yet,” he said. “That is our goal every year!”

Going hand-in-hand with the orientation program is the fourth annual Leadership Institute for K/T mentors and navigators. 

Returning students have the opportunity to serve in two different leadership capacities, either as a K/T mentor or navigator. Mentors are there for first-year students throughout the four-day orientation and then throughout the entire school year. As a part of their involvement in the program, mentors are awarded a stipend. Navigators provide logistical support, ensuring first-year success for the duration of the program.

The Leadership Institute, which is held in the days leading up to K/T, offers many benefits including a direct focus on building skills in customer service, leadership development, diversity, inclusion, cultural competence, individual cultural development, and mentor development.

The hope is that participating in the Institute will build skills to help student leaders develop boundaries, identify strengths within a team to complete tasks, and develop the ability to include diverse opinions, experiences, outlooks, and foster pride within their culture.

Daniels is thrilled to resume the Leadership Institute in person and says the 81 students participating will immediately notice a jolt of excitement when they arrive for it.

“We have a high energy group of student leaders [K/T mentors and navigators] who are peers of the K/T participants, but also are experts on navigating �鶹ӰԺ,” he said. “They are eager to receive their incoming students and include them in their �鶹ӰԺ State family.”

Daniels also points to a few other factors that will make the Leadership Institute a memorable experience.

“We have some amazing faculty facilitating these sessions,” he said. “[Additionally, the] team-building experiences that are hands-on and meaningful will equip our student leaders with the tools necessary to do life-changing work!”

For more information on the Student Multicultural Center, please click here.