BY: Taniya Frazier
Most people know the phrase, “You can’t sit with us,” from the classic 2009 film Mean Girls. The phrase is referring to someone being unable to socialize or physically be around a certain group. Unfortunately, this type of thinking has translated into reality. I have seen cliques and in-groups that do not accept other people that don’t align with their mindset or perspective. College shouldn’t be a social pyramid–this isn’t high school.
It’s time to break the stigma of cliques. AUM is an inclusive campus. People should be able to feel welcomed, regardless of where they come from or who they are. Why don’t we leave the cliques and stereotypes in high school? College is much more than sticking within your in-group or co-culture. This is the time to explore surroundings, meet different people, and find out who you really are. You would be surprised at how much you can have in common with one person. It’s all about connections.
Chelsea C., a Counseling Education graduate student, sat down with me to discuss stereotypes and exclusive in-groups. We discussed how appearances can be deceiving. I know that certain people are written off as unapproachable because of their facial expressions. However, no one should be judged instantly before any conversation. I asked Chelsea why some people tend to belittle others. She stated, “We don’t like to break the barriers. We try to keep our status up and never try to do things differently.”
If this is the case, then why don’t we do things differently? Chelsea explained, “Nobody wants to stand out. Everyone wants to stay in their lane. Nobody wants to do things differently as far as setting goals and making plans for the community.” Lastly, I asked how we could change this type of outcome. She said, “Provide a business plan, become more social, allow people to be themselves, and don’t judge people based on what you hear.”
Let’s break down the barrier of irrelevant requirements people feel are needed to be friends with another person–forget their background, disregard their political views, and respect, but don’t judge, cultures. Let’s just talk! Interpersonal relationships are all about connections. This is why having a common ground or shared interests is key.