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He replied with an answer that struck at the core of
what many believe to be a blanket solution of when
it comes to assisting students of color. For example,
Guzman expanded on his recognition of student
groups, such as the Student Minority Advisory and
Recruitment Team (SMART), a student – run
admissions group with the focus on recruitment and
retainment of underrepresented student
populations at Penn State.
Guzman noted that while these student
organizations such as SMART are conducting critical
objectives for the success of the university, they are
undervalued and lack resources.
“You can’t just give money to these groups and
expect it to fix the problems that they experience,”
Guzman said.
YOU CAN’T JUST GIVE
MONEY TO THESE
GROUPS AND EXPECT IT
TO FIX THE PROBLEMS
THAT THEY EXPERIENCE
In essence, financing student groups isn’t the only
way for the university to aid the organization in
achieving their objective, but understanding their
goal, recognizing them for their undertaking, and
spreading their mission.
“Penn State has done a lot, but must be able to do
more,” Guzman emphasized.
Along with aiding the success of these groups,
RISE
INTERVIEW
Guzman believes that focusing on injustice must be
a focal point for the university. “When it comes to
battling incidents of racial injustice, we must speak
up with action,” Guzman explains.
Fortunately, there are many student leaders along
with Ramon helping to change the narrative at Penn
State. With student organizations such as the Social
Justice Coalition, who provided water for residents
in Flint, Michigan just a few weeks ago, there has
already been considerable action for communities
not just here in State College, but across the nation.
While students of color begin to become the
majority on many college campuses, students
of color everywhere, not just at Penn State, must be
able to harness their personal uniqueness and use it
to showcase their capabilities.
Whether it be taking on a degree in the Liberal Arts
or in STEM, becoming involved in social justice
advocacy groups or creating a unique educational
route, students of color must mark their importance
by being nothing less but exemplary.
Students of color within the Penn State student
body must recognize their capability to enact
change, promote awareness, and enable due
diligence.
Photo Credit: State of State