Q: What is it like being a Native American student at a predominantly white institution?
A: For me, being a Native American student at a predominately white institution is what I am familiar with. Growing up off of the Qualla Boundary, I was often the extreme minority in the schools I attended, the only other Native students often being my siblings or two cousins. WCU has allowed me to be surrounded by more Native students than I ever have before.
Q: What has your experience at WCU been like?
A: My experience at Western has been mostly positive. As a graduate student, I think I am potentially more removed from a lot of the negativity that could be experienced. The faculty and students, for the most part, are curious and interested in learning more and getting a take on the different curricula from a Native lens. There are unfortunately stereotypes and lack of education that I have encountered. I do my best to try and correct people when I encounter these moments and educate them further, or give them resources.
Q: What is it like being a Native American student at a predominantly white institution?
A: Being Native American on campus doesn’t feel too different, I don’t feel any different than anyone non-native.
Q: What has your experience at WCU been like?
A: My experiences have been all positive at Western. Everyone is very friendly and the campus itself is great.
Q: What is it like being a Native American student at a predominantly white institution?
A: I don't feel any different being in a predominately white institution. I feel like I get treated as any other student. You look to your right or left and there are other students of different races. Some are mixed and some you can't tell what they are, but they're all just people.