Learning what employers are looking for, taking a trip to the Underground Freedom Center or having a place to call home on campus are just some of the advantages of belonging to the Black Student Union (BSU) on the campus of California University of Pennsylvania, group members say.
Tisean Bell, 20, of Maryland, said, "Although I am involved in many organizations on campus, the Black Student Union is one of my favorites."
She said she likes that there is an organization for minorities on campus.
"Being minority and having an organization of people who can relate to me means a lot," Bell said. "The same goes for the Hispanic Association."
Nevertheless, the Black Student Union is not limited to African-Americans.
In fact, the student handbook at Cal U says the Black Student Union's mission is to strive "to accomplish political awareness as well as unity." And unity is what the organization is all about, say its executive officers and members -- unity among all students at Cal.
BSU's motto is Building Student Unity. President Christopher Spradley said not only does he want to see student unity at Cal, he wants to see Cal grow by recruiting diverse students.
He said unity starts within the organization, and BSU is reaching out to students of all racial and ethnic backgrounds through such activities as a holiday dinner, formal, and talent showcase.
George Barron, a junior and football player, said he feels BSU is living up to its mission.
"I know now more people are involved and active than in years before. I see more students, not just African Americans, coming out to events that are sponsored by BSU. That's when you know there's a change," he said.
Spradley said attendance at BSU events increased during the fall 2004 semester and said it's because BSU is paying more attention to "building student unity at Cal."
One event in November was "What Businesses Really Want," a seminar on how to prepare for job interviews, how to build a resume, and how to dress appropriately for businesses, led by career services.
BSU officers said that in February, which is Black History Month, the club is planning a trip to the Underground Freedom Center in Cincinnati.
Brittany McCann, 18, from Munhall, said she hasn't been to any BSU meetings because she didn't know it was open to anyone.
McCann said, "I thought you had to be African-American in order to join. I will now try to be involved in BSU and learn things about others."
Justin Dawson, 23, a graduate advisor, encourages any student to become a member. He said at a recent BSU meeting, "I want others to join and learn to experience other cultures. I also want others to join so they can bring different ideas to the table so everyone can enjoy the planned activities."
BSU meets Thursdays at 3 p.m. in the lobby of Clyde Hall.
"Everyone is welcome to join," Dawson said.
Ava Lynn Weathers, 19, of Monroeville, is a public relations/ marketing minor. Shakia Canada, 19, of Philadelphia, is a sophomore journalism/Spanish major.
