Comfort v. Necessity

The Crisis That Is Cal Poly," read the signs.Silent protesters gathered on Dexter Lawn with signs exclaiming the truth about racism and sexual assault prevalent on California Polytechnic State University's campus.Open House was supposed to be a time for current Mustangs to inform me, a prospective student, about the positive attributes of the top-ranking university.Instead, the students, who felt silenced by Cal Poly, gathered to express their support for targeted students of the Black community.Protesters of the recent Black face incident resisted President Armstrong's claim that the incident was "protected by free speech, and freedom of expression" (Leslie).As members of the Black Student Union and their allies made their way to the lawn, confusion and a small tinge of hesitation sparked within me.Based on the signs, literally and figuratively, this was not the school I worked so hard to get into.I explained to one of the protesters how passionate I am about social justice and how I did not think I could make this place my home.She then told me something I will never forget."If you want to make a change in this world, go where you're needed, not where you're comfortable."In that moment, I knew I would accept Cal Poly's offer of admission.Students normally choose their college based on the things they admire about it, but I chose Cal Poly for the things I did not.After learning more about the widespread racism on campus, I no longer thought about the inclusive environment and bustling city around Seattle University.SU was my dream school, but going there would keep me in a stagnant state with like-minded people.In order to make change, I must step out of my comfort zone.I knew Cal Poly would be an amazing place to speak my mind and continue my activism.I decided that joining the Black Student Union would be my first step.I have always been passionate about civil rights and I think it's important to embrace cultures different from my own; White and Mexican.I also want to show my support for the changes BSU is trying to make on Cal Poly's campus.Laughter and smiles filled the room as I walked into my first BSU meeting.Ambitious Black scholars enjoyed a space where they built a community here on campus.Everyone was very welcoming, but seeing no one who looks like you can be intimidating and create a feeling of insecurity.Is this how Black students feel every day when entering Cal Poly's predominantly white campus?This thought reinforced how important it is for underrepresented students to build a community.A community that promotes, embraces and appreciates Black culture.Having people who understand your struggles and overcome them with you is a