UWEC [And] the Something New ASB Domestic Intercultural Immersion : Exploring the Impacts of High-Impact Practices on Students' Attitudes Surrounding EDI Initiatives

Abstract

The topics of immigration and refugees have been in the media spotlight lately. Media and the political climate is causing uneasiness and confusion around immigration and refugees. The research that has been put together on the Something New Alternative Spring Break (ASB) Domestic Intercultural Immersion (DII) trip, should show the experiences that Blugolds have taken away from these high-impact practice trips. The ASB trip is approved and funded by the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and gives students a motivating experience. The purpose of this trip is to expose students to different cultures, primarily that of refugees and immigrants that have come to the United States. This experience brings forth the political climate, relationships, and activism that is taking place and the community surrounding the diverse culture. Through the University support of the ASB trip, the importance of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusivity (EDI) initiatives is brought forth on campus. Also through this research, aspects of both the Social Judgement Theory and the Critical Race theory are assessed and relate back to the ASB trip.