Across campus, the Multiracial Unity Living Experience/Intercultural Aide (MRULE/ICA) Program at Michigan State University creates spaces for meaningful conversations. Through Round-Table Discussions, Spartans come together to exchange ideas, share experiences, and foster connections.
“Round-Table Discussions are how we build vibrant community and raise critical consciousness,” Intercultural Aide Isabella said. “We can share our views, our experiences, gain some new knowledge, and it's a really good place to stay informed, stay engaged, and meet new people.”
That sense of openness and connection is what many participants say makes the discussion meaningful to them. For some, this space offers a rare opportunity to speak freely about topics that matter most to them.
“It's good to know there's a place where I can talk about mental health and social injustice freely on campus because there aren't many places that I know where I can talk about that stuff, where I live at or like anywhere else,” discussion participant, Jeremiah said. “RTDs are pretty refreshing to know I can talk about that stuff.”
For many, these discussions are a critical touchpoint that help them feel more connected to their community.
“I get to have a lot of talks with other people and hear how they think and even share my own perspective,” Intercultural Aide Thomas said. “I love doing this because I get to support my neighborhood, I get to interact with a large amount of people, and I'm able to build community wherever I'm at.”
Isabella also said that RTDs can help students get out of their comfort zone and build lasting connections while getting used to their new college routines.
“This provides a really good place for people to get to know each other on a more personal level, share as much as they're comfortable with, and really learn from each other,” Isabella said. “It just does wonders for building that campus community.”
Isabella and Thomas both stressed that these round-table discussions are open to all current MSU students, not just the on-campus community.
“Anyone who would like to come and is available is welcome,” Isabella said.
RTDs are held on Monday nights in Brody Hall, and on Tuesday nights in Case and McDonel halls. Learn more.
Story by Ever Pratt-Hart
