• Unit 4: Social Interaction and Diversity

    Unit 4 explores relationships between people and groups of people, and ways of keeping those relationships viable. The unit will walk you through the benefits of social interaction, lead to you examine diversity and what that means, and help you identify organized groups available to you on campus. 

    The relationships with others and the support networks you develop as a student will likely serve you long after you leave the classroom.  

    Completing this unit should take you approximately 2 hours.

    • Upon successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:

      • describe benefits of interacting socially in college and strategies for effectively communicating in social situations;
      • identify social conflicts and resolution strategies;
      • identify factors that define a diverse group and lead to positive effects in college;
      • identify implications of accessibility on campus and in communities; and
      • describe the various campus organizations available to students, potential resources for learning about the organizations, and benefits from participating in them.

    • 4.1: Why It Matters: Social Interaction and Diversity

      • Why It Matters: Social Interaction and Diversity Page

        Do you feel that your relationships with others are interdependent? Are you comfortable reaching out to a friend, a faculty member, a tutoring center or a counseling center to seek help with something? Interdependence is an important part of life, and cultivating supportive win-win relationships will serve you in college and beyond.

    • 4.2: Socializing

      • Socializing Page

        There are many benefits to interacting socially in college, like gaining good friends, joining study groups, reducing stress, sharing interests, and easing loneliness. What are some effective strategies for socializing successfully? How might you optimally deal with social conflict? It’s possible to have a healthy social life that’s balanced with other responsibilities.

    • 4.3: Diversity and Accessibility

      • Diversity and Accessibility Page

        For each of us, diversity has unique meaning. What does diversity mean to you? Explore some of the many definitions offered by college students and determine which may be most accurate and thoughtful in your estimation. Even if you feel like an outsider at college, you can grow in understanding the importance of diversity on campus and the value of speaking openly and honestly about connecting with diverse cultures.

    • 4.4: Campus and Student Life

      • Campus and Student Life Page

        Your campus may be small or large or anything in between, but you are likely presented with an impressive array of student activities that are available for your enrichment and enjoyment. Your biggest challenge may be deciding how much extra time you have for campus and student life after fulfilling studying. Being involved in the campus community is vital to every student. It’s vital to the college, too.

    • 4.5: Putting It Together: Social Interaction and Diversity

      • Putting It Together: Social Interaction and Diversity Page

        Socializing is a big part of college, and it’s an important part of every student’s mental health. Take advantage of the many opportunities to meet new people, make new friends, and enjoy social interaction and diversity in college.