Joshua Thompson: Office of Diversity and Inclusion Activities - Week 1

Activity:

• Compiled list of high schools for off campus recruitment of minority students for impending summit.
• Interviewed individual staff members to gain understanding of different components of office.
• Observed supervisor in speaking role with leadership program for towards minority students.
• Collaborated with staff to formulate proposal for potential event. 

Experience:

I have chosen the Office of Institutional Diversity and Inclusion as the site for my practicum for Summer, 2014. Coming in, I was very excited and eager to be under the supervision of the Chief Diversity Officer, Dr. Stevenson and his staff. One of the first things that I did when getting to the office was to meet everyone, and ask general questions about each of their respective positions. After introductions, I met with my supervisor about potential marking strategies for major events associated with the office. 

For the majority of this week I met with staff, worked on different marketing strategies for oncoming events, and compiled a list of potential high schools to promote major events to. In addition, I also got the chance to shadow my supervisor as he spoke to a group of at risk students about the education. I feel as though it was remarkable to be able to witness minority youth be empowered with the tools that they need to be successful throughout their lives. 

Since coming to this office I feel as though I am on the right track as far as gaining experience that will allow me excel in my desired profession. I am very optimistic about gaining even more exposure in the following weeks. 

-JT