Fall 2024: Student insights on diversity at UIC
As a new academic year kicks off, our campus comes alive with excitement, anticipation and a sense of new opportunities. UIC’s dedication to diversity, equity and engagement is at the core of its community and these principles not only influence the culture of the university, but also enrich individual experiences by bringing together students with various histories, viewpoints and backgrounds.
In an effort to commemorate the beginning of the semester, we asked three current undergraduate students to tell us what they believe makes our university unique. Their opinions, which range from recommended campus services to significant diversity efforts, provide an insight into the distinctive and fulfilling experiences that characterize UIC student life.
We hope that as you read through their comments, you will be inspired by their experiences and motivated to meaningfully interact with our unique community.
ODEE: What is your favorite resource or space on campus, and how has it helped you succeed?
Gabriella Mendes (‘26):
“My favorite resource is the Center for Student Involvement (CSI). I’ve been involved with it for most of my time at UIC, and it’s helped me connect with different organizations and explore outside of my comfort zone. Through that connection at CSI, I found the Brazilian Student Association which has been key in maintaining a connection to my culture away from home.”
Wendy Alamanza (‘25):
“I’d say the library. As a commuter, it gives me a space to study between classes and work. It’s really convenient and there’s always social opportunities that let me connect with other commuters with a multitude of different backgrounds.”
Niyati Sharma (‘27):
“One of my favorite resources is the United Women’s Network. We would have coffee get-togethers or picnics in the quad, which was refreshing and helped me connect with other girls who had similar struggles in the world of business. As far as spaces, I’d also say the library is a great place to meet up with friends.”
ODEE: Can you share a memorable experience where you felt a strong sense of belonging at UIC?
Gabriella Mendes (‘26):
“There was this one time we had a general board meeting for UIC Radio outside on the quad. It was so fun, and I felt really connected to the community through the radio. We enjoyed each other’s presence and got to know each other on a deeper level outside of radio. It made me feel more confident walking around campus because I saw so many more familiar faces. Plus, it was cool to see people from different backgrounds coming together just to hang out and be themselves since we all have something in common.”
Wendy Alamanza (‘25):
“I’m part of Alpha Sigma Tau, and it has allowed me to find sisters and friends outside of the business school. It really helped me feel more connected to the university and gave me a chance to gain sisters from different cultures, and it’s been comforting to see that the Panhellenic sorority stereotype that intimidated me at first is nonexistent at UIC.”
Niyati Sharma (‘27):
“My most memorable experience so far has been with the Indian Student Association (ISA), which I’m on the board for. We had our first Garba event combined with DePaul last year, and it was great seeing people from both universities connecting through cultural dance. Even if you didn’t know the dance, there were always people willing to help you. We’ve also hosted Diwali events for international students who can’t go home, which are my favorite.”
ODEE: What advice would you give to new students looking to get involved in the campus community?
Gabriella Mendes (‘26):
“My advice would be that you get what you put into it. A lot of people are hesitant, shy or nervous, which I understand because I’ve been there. But my situation didn’t change until I took the initiative. You have to advocate for yourself and get involved if you want to make the most of your time at UIC.”
Wendy Alamanza (‘25):
“I would say put yourself out there. UIC is always sending out emails about free events where you can meet people, whether from your major or just general events. Sign up for the cultural centers’ newsletters and check out any table at involvement fairs that interests you and talk to the people there. Everyone’s trying to reach out to you, so take advantage of that.”
Niyati Sharma (‘27):
“There are always so many organizations on campus, and it can be a bit overwhelming. My advice is to go on Instagram, and if you see anyone repost something that interests you, DM them. People are usually excited to talk about their clubs. Just join, drag a friend along and attend one event. It’s a great way to have fun and get involved.”
ODEE: How have the diversity and inclusion initiatives on campus impacted your university experience?
Gabriella Mendes (‘26):
“I really appreciate the Latino Cultural Center in Lecture Hall B. It’s so nice and colorful there. I met one of my best friends Isabella there, and she encouraged me to keep going which made me feel more confident in my identity and my connection to my Brazilian heritage.”
Wendy Alamanza (‘25):
“I adore all the Latina groups on campus, but especially the ones that emphasize coding and STEM. They are super good at building a community that is encouraging and accepting. While I do wish there were more groups specifically for business, I really value the efforts being taken to foster more diversity in fields where we’re not usually represented.”
Niyati Sharma (‘27):
“It’s really comforting to have all the cultural organizations on campus, even if you don’t attend their events often. Just seeing the flyers reminds me of my culture and is a security blanket for me. That was actually one of the main reasons my parents and I chose UIC—because of its diversity. It’s great to see different cultural groups and celebrations on campus.”
ODEE: What challenges have you faced during your time here, and what support or resources have been the most helpful in overcoming them?
Gabriella Mendes (‘26):
“One challenge for me was feeling disconnected from my culture. However, the Brazilian Student Association has been a great resource. Even though it’s relatively new, it has helped me feel closer to home and more connected to my cultural roots.”
Wendy Alamanza (‘25):
“One initiative that I think has done a great job of helping me become more secure is the Latin American Recruitment and Educational Services (LARES) program. They provide tutoring, advice and networking opportunities, especially for first-generation students. It’s been super helpful to have a program that understands the unique challenges of our community and supports us through them.”
Niyati Sharma (‘27):
“I have a hard time making friends because I am so used to having my own community around me. Something that has helped is engaging with organizations that reflect my background and interests, even if it’s challenging at first to reach out.”
ODEE: What does diversity mean to you, and how do you see it represented in our campus culture?
Gabriella Mendes (‘26):
“Diversity, to me, means being in an environment where everyone is accepted for who they are. Moving to Chicago was a breath of fresh air for me after living in a very homogeneous area in Florida. Here, people are more open and welcoming. It’s refreshing to see people being appreciated for their backgrounds and experiences.”
Wendy Alamanza (‘25):
“Being surrounded by a range of backgrounds and opinions that enhance our lives and deepen our understanding of the world. I feel really lucky to be living in Chicago and attending UIC, which is such a melting pot of cultures. I grew up in a predominantly Mexican neighborhood, and coming to UIC was a very different experience. It’s refreshing to meet people from all over the world. I think it’s important to have different cultures represented because we learn and grow from each other.”
Niyati Sharma (‘27):
“Diversity means having a sense of belonging and respect regardless of one’s background. I grew up in a primarily white neighborhood, and there wasn’t much diversity. Coming to UIC, it was nice to see people from different backgrounds and not have to hear ignorant comments. UIC has been very welcoming, and it’s great to see the diversity here.”