Being in college opens up endless doors for students. I know I can speak for most of us when I say that as Redhawks, we are very lucky to be students here at Montclair State University. There is so much offered to us that we should be thankful for; our dedicated professors, the university's location just outside New York City, all of the endless opportunities available for both learning and entertainment on campus, and much more. However, there is one quality unique to MSU that I'd like to pay special attention to: its diversity. By definition, diversity is being composed of different elements, and that is just what our campus is!

Hands down, the students attending Montclair State University are the heart of our campus's diversity. We have a growing number of young adults from all over New Jersey and even surrounding states applying to the school each year. They must have gotten word that MSU is clearly "the place" to be to further your education! It is obvious that with students gathering from all over, there will be varying economic and cultural backgrounds among everyone. No matter where and what our classmates come from, it is key to remember that we are all there for the same reason.

In my option, I feel that diversity goes hand in hand with tolerance and respect. Others do not necessarily need to agree and support things that differ from their personal beliefs, but they do need to tolerate and respect them. This plays true when talking about diversity in terms of religion, cultural backgrounds, economic statuses, and sexual orientation. I stand from a more liberal point when I say simply; does it really matter? If one is happy with their beliefs and living their life as a good person, it should not affect their neighbor, who may have been brought up with different views. We are not defined by what our sexual orientation, race, or religion may be. Instead, our ability to tolerate and respect those who differ from ourselves is what defines us as people. A community is one unified group and if everyone attending MSU were educated on the importance of diversity, our student body would be much more united.

Montclair State University is a very accepting environment, as there are numerous clubs dedicated to different groups of students. We have heritage clubs that are aimed at sharing the traditions of almost any nationality and culture you can think of, as well as a very large LGBTQ community. Each club sponsors different and almost always free events on campus, which are open to all students. Personally, I always make an effort to attend these events and meet new people. College is all about new experiences and discovering who you are. There is no other place than Montclair State University to do so because of the diverse atmosphere and opportunities provided for students. It really is all here!