Faces of Michigan

Name: Tiffany Torres
Year: 3rd Year
Major: Sociology, American Culture
Home: Texas

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I first became interested in diversity and social justice issues at U-M when I was really lucky to receive a work study position in the Spectrum Center (formerly called the Office of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Affairs), and meet the Minority Peer Advisor when I moved into my residence Hall. I was exposed to a great group of people in Student Affairs which allowed me a safe space to talk about diversity and social justice.

Classes that sparked my interest in social justice issues and the law:

• Freshman Year:
  • Introduction to Latino Studies (Amcult 315);
  • Intro. to Sociology (a great intro course that really sparks your interest!) (Soc 100);
  • Intro. to Women’s Studies (Womenstd 340);
  • History of Latino’s in the United States (Amcult 315);
  • Sociology of Sexuality (another great one!) (Soc 345)
• Sophomore Year:
  • Language and Discrimination (AnthroCult 370);
  • Intergroup Dialogue (This class continues to impact my everyday thinking and actions; I recommend that every student at this university take this course!);
  • Topics in American Culture: Human Rights and Social Justice Organizing (Amcult 301)

Co-curricular experiences I’ve been involved with:

• Freshman Year: Bursley Family Multicultural Council, working and hanging out in the LGBTA, La Voz Latina, LGBTA Speakers Bureau
• Sophomore Year: Working in the LGBTA, Intergroup Dialogue Workshop Facilitation, LGBTA Speakers Bureau, La Voz Latina, Sigma Lambda Gamma Multicultural Sorority, Michigan Student Assembly.

Since I didn’t know anyone when I arrived, I wouldn’t have found out about so much without the help and guidance of people who were more familiar with the campus/community. The staff in the Residence Halls were really helpful, as well as everyone in the Dean of Students. I always appreciate it when someone I know introduces me to someone I don’t, because it just helps me to learn more about the University and the people who are experiencing it with me.

Advice I would give to students who are trying to navigate their way around the social justice and diversity related experiences at U-M:
It’s OK if you want to get involved and don’t really know how to at first—everyone experiences that. Don’t be afraid to go to meetings/clubs/etc to find out what they’re about, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Get involved with co-curricular activities that you enjoy and that are socially stimulating. You would never realize how many people are excited about the fact that you have an interest in social justice and diversity awareness, let those people help you in anything you need. Take advantage of the resources provided to you such as the Minority Peer Advisors in your Residence Halls, Residence Advisors, and Student Affairs and the Dean of Students Offices, and Student Government. It’s OK to walk into an office and ask what they do . . . they’d LOVE to tell you!