Perspectives of Black Students at Regis University
By Paige Robinson, Staff Photographer
During Black History Month 2023, I was curious to hear different perspectives from other Black students than myself to engage in their different stories, experiences, advice, and more. Along with me wanting to hear from my peers, I also wanted others to listen and understand what life might be like for a Black student, especially attending a PWI (predominantly white institution). Some responses may be what some expect, while other responses may come as a shock. Many times, Black voices are silenced so people can avoid hearing the hard truth about our lives and our history. I want to put an end to that, and I really hope people can truly feel for the Black students. The responses to the questions below will reflect how each student differs, but also connect. Other fellow Black students can also read this and know they are not alone. This is for those to understand the realities of the minority community, the good and bad.
Community Cats: The Strays Living in Southern France
By: Madelynn Loring, Staff Writer
On August 31, I boarded a plane to the Paris Orly Airport to start my study abroad adventure. After almost 14 hours of travel and layover time, I finally reached my destination, Montpellier, a coastal city in the south of France. The weather, at least for the present moment, is almost tropical (brutally so, because very few buildings here have any air conditioning.) One in every five people in the city is a student, many of whom are international, much like myself. The city is easily navigable by public transport, and the plethora of mixing cultures makes it a perfect place to explore as a student.
When reflecting upon how I would continue to contribute to the Highlander, and the Regis community as a whole, I figured I would write articles documenting the study abroad experience with my tips, tricks, and insights into the journey of studying abroad. However, since arriving in Montpellier, the subject of the first article has shifted from what I had initially planned. So, rest assured, I will be writing What I wish I knew before I Studied Abroad: Part 1 of 803 shortly, but, for the time being, I am going to focus on the aspect of Montpellier culture that I have come into the closest and most frequent contact with, the savvy strays I have dubbed Community Cats.