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Social or Interpersonal Issues

Photo of students in the brickyardTime spent in college can be a time of exploration. Many believe this should be the best time of their lives. Interacting with others and building strong ties and relationships will pay huge dividends in the future. Getting involved, whether it is in Greek life, intramural sports, and other clubs and organizations, will create lifetime friendships. This type of involvement is also a key to succeeding after college. Your ability to establish networks and resources that may not otherwise be available while in college will be key to securing your dream job, getting a recommendation, and building future networks. There is also a great deal of leadership opportunities. You may also want to participate in community projects through service learning or volunteering. Go ahead! Try something new. There are lots of options and you'll never be pinned down into only one.

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Is there a place on campus where I can talk to someone relating to women's issues?

NC State has a supportive Women's Center. The professionals there will help connect you with the resources you need. Additionally, Student Health Services provides a special emphasis on women's health issues.

What's the NC State environment like for GLBT students?

NC State reflects the wide range of beliefs and attitudes about GLBT issues held by our society as a whole. On campus, you will find individuals who hold positive attitudes about Gay, Lesbians, Bisexual and Transgendered individuals and those who strongly believe that any sexual orientation other than heterosexuality is wrong. From student surveys, GLBT students report that they feel safe on campus and have not experienced being a direct target of discrimination based on their orientation. However, they also report that they regularly overhear negative comments and statements. We have "out" students on campus, those who are still "in the closet" and students at various points on this continuum.

NC State is committed to being a welcoming community for all students and there are a number of ways the University is working to support GLBT students. There are student organizations (BLGA and Delta Lambda Phi), programs such as Everyone Welcome Here Week and Project SAFE, and staff members dedicated to creating an inclusive campus community. More importantly, there are very strong ally voices pushing for greater awareness and understanding.

NC State is working to provide the type of support for any student to feel welcome, safe, and a part of our community. It is important to remember that your experience at NC State is largely based on how much you put into making connections, taking advantages of campus resources, and getting involved. A majority of GLBT students who have made the effort to get involved, develop positive relationships with peers, staff and faculty, and use the available resources feel that their experience at NC State has been supportive and positive.

How does NC State embrace student diversity?

NC State embraces diversity as central to the academic mission of the university and as essential for our effective participation in the global community. Achieving diversity requires the active engagement and participation of all members of the university community.

NC State reflects diversity because: a.) it comprises a community of individuals from varied backgrounds and demographic categories; b.) it encourages, accepts, and values a diversity of people and ideas; c.) it seeks to promote an environment where equity. respect and recognition represent the norm in the campus climate and d.) it seeks to prepare entrepreneurs who are effective citizens of a global community.

To become involved in campus diversity initiatives, education and training take a look at these links:

How can I find people with interests similar to mine?

Check out the Student Organization Resource Center (SORC)! This can be a great resource to help you find organizations, join organizations, or start new organizations. Also, your department and college may sponsor student organizations for students in majors similar to yours. If you live on campus, check out your hall council or the Inter-Residence Council.

I lived abroad for most of my life, is there an international student community on campus?

Check out the Alexander Global Village on campus to see if that's a living option for you:  http://www.ncsu.edu/housing/communities/alexander/index.php  You might also investigate the Office in International Services - http://www.ncsu.edu/oisss/ - for more options related to NC State's International Community.

I'm concerned that my friend has an alcohol problem, who should I talk to?

If you would like to speak to someone concerning a friend's alcohol problem, you may contact Ronni Margolin (ronni_margolin@ncsu.edu) in University Counseling, 515-2423 or Chris Austin (chris_austin@ncsu.edu) in Health Promotion, 515-9355. However, the best person you can talk to is the friend you're concerned about. While you may feel uncomfortable, to say the least, here is a chance to show how much this friend means to you.

If you are unsure whether this person really has a problem, consider these examples of problem drinking: drinks to get drunk, tries to solve problems by drinking, experiences personality changes (may be loud, angry, violent, silent, remote, reclusive), drinks when he/she should not (before driving, going to class, etc.), causes other problems, harms self or others, experiences blackouts (memory is erased, although it appears one is functioning normally), and drinks to the point of unconsciousness. This list is not exhaustive. You may have other legitimate concerns that need to be addressed.

If you've come to the decision to speak to your friend, let that person know that you care about him or her, and that's why you need to talk! Here are some other resources that can aid you in your discussion:

 

GET INVOLVED (Organizations, Clubs, and Volunteering)

What is the Alternative Spring Break program?

Do you like to travel? Do you want to learn about another culture? Do you want to make a difference? Do you want to participate in a life changing experience? Then Alternative Spring Break (ASB) is an opportunity waiting for you!

ASB is a unique service-learning experience in which students engage in direct service to a community, while being immersed in the culture and customs of that community. Teams are led by student team leaders and accompanied by faculty advisors. Throughout the week, team members participate in a variety of cultural, educational, recreational and reflective activities to enhance their service experience.To learn more about the program and to apply, please visit: CSLEPS: Alternative Spring Break

I've always played sports growing up and would like to continue doing that. Does State offer any intramural options?

You're sure to find a recreational sport activity to meet your interests here at State. Check out what Campus Recreation has to offer at http://www.ncsu.edu/campus_rec/ Being physically active helps reduce stress and keep you fit!

I was involved in active member of the arts in high school. Can I still participate in the arts even if it's not part of my major?

Absolutely! There are lots of ways to get involved with the arts on campus, and it doesn't matter what your major is. Whether your interest is working backstage, acting, dancing, singing, playing an instrument or crafts - you are welcome to audition or register for classes and performance opportunities. Go to Arts NC State for more information on how to get involved with the six arts programs at ARTS NC STATE.

I would like to be a part of the ROTC experience on campus. What do I need to do?

Army ROTC (Reserve Officers' Training Corps) is one of the best leadership courses in the country and is part of your college curriculum. During classes and field training, you will learn first-hand what it takes to lead others, motivate groups and how to conduct missions as an Officer in the Army. Upon graduation from Army ROTC, you will earn the bar of a Second Lieutenant and become a leader for life. Call (919)515-2428 or visit the offices in Reynolds Coliseum for more information.

Check out the ROTC Visitors page to learn all about the Air Force ROTC program here at NC State.

The Naval ROTC program at NC State is comprised of over 100 student midshipmen and Navy/Marine enlisted personnel seeking college degrees and commissions as military officers. The unit is governed by a cadre of active duty Navy and Marine officers who educate and prepare students for future service as leaders in both the Navy and Marine Corps. Please contact the duty officer at (919)515-2757 with any questions. The unit is located in Reynolds Coliseum, room 186. Walk-ins are always welcomed.

What is the Visionary Leaders Certificate and how do I get one?

Students completing 10 leadership workshops and 20 hours of community service while at NC State can earn a Visionary Leaders Certificate. You have your whole college career to finish it - so get started! The certificate is a great conversation piece in internship, co-op and job interviews! Learn more: CSLEPS: Visionary Leaders Certificate.

What is the Leadership Transcript and how do I get mine?

The Leadership Transcript is a list of all the CSLEPS leadership training, workshops and events you have attended. You can also add your club officer position, significant leadership experiences and service projects. Start a transcript by completing a form at a CSLEPS event and contact us when you are ready to graduate for a copy. Learn more: CSLEPS: Leadership Transcripts

Are LDS (Leadership Development Series) workshops free and where can I get a schedule?

LDS workshps are free for most students. Individual colleges pay a membership fee for their students. Check this link to see if you can come for free and for a list of workshops:CSLEPS: Leadership Development Series

Where can I learn more about leadership development opportunities on campus?

CSLEPS! Sign up for our E-Newsletter; you'll receive weekly updates on the Center's programs and campus events. http://www.ncsu.edu/csleps/index.php

I want to do some community service. Where can I find out more about opportunities to serve?

CSLEPS maintains a database where agencies lsit needs and supports numerous volunteer projects. Learn more at: CSLEPS: Center for Student Leadership, Ethics, and Public Service

What is Emerge?

The Emerging Leaders Program is a 9-week leadership program where you learn about 14 leadership topics and feel more confident about your leadership style when you complete the program. Learn more: CSLEPS: Emerging Leaders Program

I want to volunteer as a tutor or mentor. Do you have a program to help me connect?

CSLEPS sponsors the Campus Pals program. Volunteers are screened by Big Brothers Big Sisters and are paired with a "little" brother or sister. Learn more: CSLEPS: Campus Pals

I don't have a lot of time to volunteer but would like to do something for the community. What should I do?

Participate in a CSLEPS "HOWLS Event." These 1-time community service projects are usually on a Saturday once a month. Learn more: CSLEPS: Helping Others with Leadership and Service

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