Learning in Community
As students, ICAs are here to support you. One of the ways they do that is by connecting with you throughout campus. These connections can take place at residence halls, dining venues, courtyards, living-learning communities, university events, or other meaningful moments. These interactions help create spaces where students can find a sense of belonging and feel part of something larger.
Transitioning to college can be a challenging experience, and at times, lonely. Intercultural Aides work in tandem with students to build and sustain supportive relationships on campus that offer care, belonging, and purpose. They help foster environments where students feel seen, valued, and connected.
ICAs work together with Resident Assistants (RAs) to build community within residence hall life, create engagement opportunities and social events, form genuine connections with and between students, and provide resources that help students succeed. Together, they help create opportunities for every student to find their place and thrive.
“The best thing that my ICA had done was come to my door when she noticed I stopped going to RTD. I was having a hard time with some classes and was starting to get sick, so she came to my room to check in on me and encouraged me to go to RTD. Honestly, if she hadn't done that I would likely have stopped going, as I would have felt that my spontaneous reappearance would be disruptive. I'm so grateful she did this for me.” - RTD Participant
How ICAs Build Connections
Though there are endless ways ICAs build meaningful connections, there are a few core practices ICAs engage in: purposeful interactions, MRULE roundtable discussions, service, socials and campus partnerships.
The MRULE/ICA program uses a home-grown model of ICARE: Initiative, Curiosity, Authenticity, Reflection and Experience to support ICAs in creating vibrant relationships and dialogue across difference.
“I was able to grow my professional self, my academic self and my personal identity through the program, and that is such a rare experience to be offered.” - Intercultural Aide Alumni
Become an ICA
ICAs work in teams to support students, as we need one another to build community. Interacting with students individually and in groups to build networks of care and connection is no small task, and ICAs are motivated to help others succeed. The ICA hiring process begins during the end of fall semester for the following academic year. We encourage interested undergraduate students to attend an MRULE Roundtable Discussion or meet an ICA to get connected.
