According to Eric Buschbacher, St. John’s University has one of the most diverse student populations in the country, offering unseen benefits.
When choosing a college, many applicants are looking for something different: a diverse student body. The United States has made strides towards inclusivity and acceptance, which means higher education institutions should follow suit. For the past 15 years, St. John’s University has been named one of the top schools for campus ethnic diversity, a place where all students feel welcome. Eric Buschbacher, a recent graduate in Business Management from St. John’s, believes that a diverse campus offers numerous unspoken benefits that go beyond the classroom.
- Education
A diverse school provides a unique educational experience as students interact socially through projects. Eric Buschbacher explains that diversity in the classroom allows students to learn from others with different perspectives, which in turn leads to more collaboration and interest in the material. Suddenly, students can explore ideas and solutions through a new creative lens. Research has shown that the overall effects of diversity in the classroom are positive and lead to positive long-term intergroup relations.
- Communication
When students meet people from various backgrounds and countries, communication skills improve. Additionally, Eric Buschbacher notes that communicating with racially and ethnically diverse peers improves critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Communication skills help prepare students for the real world and make them better friends, coworkers, and citizens. Plus, it gives individuals the chance to expand their current networks and work on social development.
- Careers
A diverse educational setting prepares students to enter an increasingly diverse workforce. Eric Buschbacher notes that most organizations value teamwork, respect, and inclusivity. Students will more clearly see the character and contributions of their coworkers and play an active role in cultivating a positive work environment. No matter which industry or major, all students can benefit from the ability to understand and work well with others.
Additionally, recent studies have shown that diversity encourages competitiveness and innovation. Globalization allows business to be conducted from anywhere in the world, which means many positions requiring travel or interfacing with video conference calls. In order to succeed, young professionals must have sensitivity towards human and cultural differences. According to Eric Buschbacher, the workforce is unpredictable and ever-changing. A diverse college campus is the best way to prepare for a fulfilling career.
About Eric Buschbacher:
After completing an associate’s degree in business, Eric Buschbacher earned his bachelor’s degree in Business Management from St. John’s University in Jamaica, NY. He is now an eager young professional looking to develop new skills in a challenging work environment.
Eric Buschbacher is also an avid sports fan that played competitively in basketball and soccer. He enjoys rooting on the Giants, Knicks, and Yankees in addition to watching top European athletes compete in the Euro and World Cup. In his spare time, Eric Buschbacher enjoys going to the gym to work on strength training.
