Sense of belonging is a basic human need, is a fundamental motive that drives our behavior, is related to mattering, and is associated with positive student outcomes. Belonging is fluid and dynamic; influenced by time, context, and circumstances. Belonging is key to a person’s sense of self and all students want to belong. The absence of belonging can lead to diminished engagement and involvement.
Because belonging is a basic human need and central to a student’s success, it’s essential that all of us work to create an environment that is open, welcoming, affirming, and inclusive of all students and that we strive to live the ISU Principles of Community:
- Respect
- Purpose
- Cooperation
- Richness of diversity
- Freedom from discrimination
- Honest and respectful expression of ideas
Campus Resources
- Student Counseling Services has various counseling services available to students who may be struggling with sense of belonging. Individual counseling, group counseling, and other programs/services are available to students.
- With hundreds of options, use this online database to find clubs that interest you. If you don’t see a specific club you’re looking for, create your own!
- The Vice President Office for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion supports students, faculty, staff, alumni and community constituents to build a model of equity and inclusion that impacts every aspect of campus life and gives voice to all members of the university community.
International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO)
- The mission of the International Students and Scholars Office is to provide immigration services, personal support, and cross-cultural expertise within a welcoming and supportive environment for international students and scholars throughout their university experience.
The Center for LGBTQIA+ Student Success
- The Center for LGBTQIA+ Student Success develops academic and personal success, community, and leadership for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, intersex, asexual, and allied students.
Office of Multicultural Student Affairs
- The Office of Multicultural Student Affairs (MSA) supports and empowers Iowa State University’s students who self-identify as African American, Asian, Pacific Islander, Desi American, Latinx, Native American/Alaskan Native and/or Multiracial, and advocates for their holistic development across the University.
Margaret Sloss Center for Women and Gender Equity
- The Margaret Sloss Center for Women and Gender Equity is continuing to offer support and resources for the Iowa State Community as during the Fall semester. We’re excited to connect with you in person and online!
- You will find the Veterans Center to be a place where you can go for Veteran-related questions and to connect with others in forming a greater sense of camaraderie around a shared common experience. We are here to help with the unique challenges associated with transitioning into a university setting.
Office of Sorority and Fraternity Engagement
- Office of Sorority and Fraternity Engagement creates opportunities to become effective citizens in a global society through collaboration and community engagement, the development of self-efficacy and leadership, and the advancement of social justice.
Student Accessibility Services
- The Student Accessibility Services (SAS) at Iowa State University is a unit in the Dean of Students Office that supports students with disabilities to coordinate support services and programs that enable access to education and university life. SAS believes that equity, social justice, and diversity are essential to creating/maintaining an environment of equal access and opportunity for all. We believe that disability is a naturally occurring aspect of the diversity of life and that it is an integral part of society and to the Iowa State University campus community.
Department of Residence: Resident Resources
- One of Department of Residence primary goals is to help students who live on-campus succeed academically and graduate. Our Residence Life staff is available where you live and is equipped to assist you in achieving academic and personal success.
- Calendar of events:
- Located in the Memorial Union, the Student Activities Center is your one-stop shop to join a student club, improve those leadership skills, connect to a cause, laugh out loud, catch a show, learn a craft, take a break, and so much more!