As a lifelong military dependent, I’ve met a plethora of different people in different places and different
environments.
People of all creeds, cultures, credentials and complexions. Coming from this background, I’ve experienced open, accepting people who cherish our worlds differences and individualities, as well as closed-minded, unyielding persons who have no interest in learning about people different from themselves. Before coming to SMU, I was slightly concerned that the people I would meet here belonged to the second category. I was wrong. In fact, the student body of SMU is by far one of the most open and accepting groups I’ve had the privilege to be a part of.
When I attended Mustang Corral and was told that every mustang would be valued, I’ll admit I was a bit skeptical. All throughout a student’s academic career, one is told to accept and value the differences that make us special, but too often these just become empty words in a mandatory assembly at 2 p.m. on a Friday. But somehow, here at Southern Methodist, this important lesson is not overlooked. It’s actually reinforced strongly and consistently by the students who walk our campus every day.
I see Black, White, Indian and Japanese students, laughing together at lunch. There are Christians and Atheists studying together in the library. People from California, North Carolina, and Texas, gay and straight, liberal and conservative–all relishing each other’s company in a real and genuine way.
The students and faculty here are honestly happy with the diverse individuals around them, and welcome their unique gifts to the university. It’s the most wonderful exchange of concepts and cultures I’ve ever seen. And we as students are stronger and better for it.
College is not about learning new information, it’s about teaching us new ways of thinking. And what better way to learn than to be surrounded by a Mecca of cultures and backgrounds, in constant exchange with one another. SMU is setting up its students for lifetime success, and is empowering us to be the best of ourselves, by enveloping us in a small world of large ideas on the Hilltop.
Here at SMU, we can truly learn as much from our peers as we can from our professors, and by learning from both we learn about ourselves. I credit both the diligent support of the staff and the eagerness of the students for the availability of open exchange here on campus, and I pray that we as students don’t forget the varied lessons we learn from each other once we leave. Because they are truly the lessons that matter most.
Cody Barras is a freshman majoring in English with a minor in theatre. He can be reached for comment at [email protected]
