How Multicultural Centers Make College Feel Like Home

College is more than just classes, grades and exams—it’s a place where you explore who you are, meet people from all walks of life and prepare for a world full of diverse perspectives. For many students, finding a space to connect with others who understand their background, or to learn about new cultures can be a life-changing experience. That’s where multicultural centers come in. 

Imagine a place on campus where you can celebrate your heritage, discover new cultures, and build a sense of belonging. At Herzing University’s Minneapolis campus, our new Multicultural Center is designed to be that place for students like you. Whether you’re exploring your own identity or getting to know others, a multicultural center can support your journey in ways that go beyond academics. Let’s take a look at why these centers matter and how they can make your college experience richer, more meaningful and more connected. 

What Are Multicultural Centers in Higher Education? 

A multicultural center is a space where students from all backgrounds—students just like you—can come together, share experiences and feel at home. It’s a place for celebrating culture, offering support and providing resources to help you succeed. According to NASPA, a leading organization in student affairs, these centers play a key role in helping students feel they belong on campus, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds. 

The American Council on Education (ACE) also highlights the benefits of diversity in education. They point out that diverse environments help students learn, grow and develop skills for a globalized world. Herzing University shares this commitment, creating spaces like the Multicultural Center where you can learn from others and feel valued. 

Support for Culture and Community 

Think of a multicultural center as a second home—a place where you can find community and feel understood. When you feel like you belong, you’re more likely to thrive both academically and personally. At Herzing, we aim to make sure that every student feels included, supported, and valued. 

Academic and Social Growth 

Diversity isn’t just a concept; it’s a way for you to grow as a person. Studies show that when you interact with people from different backgrounds, you gain new insights and skills. Multicultural centers provide spaces for this kind of growth, offering programs that can boost your academic success and inspire you to get involved in your community. 

Impact on Campus and the Community 

The influence of multicultural centers goes beyond just one student; it helps shape the entire campus. These centers promote cultural understanding and empathy—skills that are valuable in any field. For example, in healthcare, cultural competence helps professionals provide better, more personalized care. Multicultural centers help you develop these skills, preparing you to connect with others in any field you choose. 

How Multicultural Centers Work in Practice 

Multicultural centers offer a range of programs and resources to help you feel more connected and supported on campus. These centers typically include: 

• Cultural Events: Celebrations of cultural heritage, holidays and traditions that bring the campus community together.
• Support Groups: Safe spaces for students from all backgrounds to share experiences and offer each other support.
• Mentorship Programs: Opportunities to connect with mentors who can provide guidance, encouragement and insights.
• Academic Resources: Workshops and tutoring programs to support academic success for all students.
• Community Outreach: Events and partnerships that connect the campus with the broader community.

Success stories from students show just how valuable these centers can be. When you find a community that understands and supports you, it’s easier to take on leadership roles and make positive changes on campus. Educators like Jamice Glass, who has firsthand experience as a Black nurse, know the power of representation and cultural understanding. Her story is a testament to how multicultural centers can help you feel seen and heard. 

Why Multicultural Centers Benefit All Students 

Even though multicultural centers are often created for underrepresented students, they benefit everyone. Multicultural centers offer benefits for all students, including: 

• Cross-Cultural Learning: Opportunities to meet people from different backgrounds and learn about their cultures.
• Building Empathy: Programs and events that encourage you to understand others’ experiences, building empathy and reducing stereotypes.
• Developing Real-World Skills: Skills like teamwork, problem-solving and communication are sharpened in diverse settings.
• Creating Lifelong Friendships: Multicultural centers foster connections that often lead to meaningful, lasting friendships.

At Herzing, our DEI office sees diversity, equity, and inclusion as essential parts of a transformative college experience. By supporting multicultural centers, schools create spaces where empathy and respect can flourish, strengthening the entire campus community. 

The Future of Multicultural Centers in Higher Education 

As society becomes more diverse, the need for multicultural centers will continue to grow. However, not all colleges are investing enough. Challenges like limited funding and slow bureaucracy can hold back growth, making it clear that continued support is needed. 

Herzing’s Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is dedicated to this progress. By investing in resources like the Multicultural Center, Herzing shows its commitment to making sure every student feels valued. As colleges continue to focus on diversity, multicultural centers will remain essential in creating inclusive communities for students like you. 

As we celebrate the new Multicultural Center at Herzing University’s Minneapolis campus, we invite you to come by, explore the space, and make it your own. Whether you’re looking for a community, a place to learn about other cultures or a supportive environment, this center is here for you. Supporting multicultural initiatives not only makes campus life more vibrant but also prepares you for a diverse, interconnected world. Welcome to a place where you can be yourself and grow together with others.