Christina Papaleo

I am at the intermediate/advanced levels of this competency area, because I advocate for accessibility that goes beyond the conventional concept of inclusion. While interning at a disability agency and the Multicultural Life and Diversity Office at SUNY Cortland, I discovered the barriers that cause social injustice for oppressed minority groups. My internship in Accessibility Support at the Griff Center, and continuing to be involved in disability advocacy initiatives will further my development in this competency area. I also hope to bring “Beyond the Blind Side” to multiple campuses to help change the perception of students with disabilities, as they are the ones who are least likely to attend college.  Aside from students with disabilities, at Medaille I found myself becoming increasingly aware of another underrepresented student population: international students. I learned that there are unidentifiable areas of privilege that American students have over international students, such as being involved on campus in clubs or understanding a professor’s lecture in the classroom. Throughout the semester I learned of differences in cultural norms and language barriers that raised concern of inclusivity--and overall well-being--in the residence halls. This motivated me to learn more about the different cultures within my residence hall, and then create educational opportunities that would benefit all students--not just the ones who feel oppressed or discriminated against.