Finding a piece of home on campus can be hard. The accepting community at Missouri State University, however, makes the process a bit easier for everyone.

Ramsey Divine (he, him, his) is an MSU second-semester nursing student. With his own set of tips for how to find your niche at Missouri State. Divine has immersed himself in Centennial Leaders, MoState LEAD, Students Against Destructive Decisions and Distinction in Public Affairs.

From the connections he made in his nursing program, to the relationships that blossomed in MoState LEAD, Divine created one loving, comprehensive community for himself.

“Acceptance in any community is important, no matter what that community may be. When communities cross paths, there is always fear of disruption,” Divine said. “Those most important to me are my queer community and my campus community. The way these communities were able to merge together and create a sense of home for me at MSU has been one of the most accepting experiences of my life.”

Finding his place

Divine credits a diversity session in Centennial Leaders that helped him feel accepted.

“I found a home in the department of leadership development. I was a part of the Centennial Leaders program as soon as I began my journey on campus,” Divine said. “Our session over diversity was my first glimpse of acceptance.”

After this positive experience, Divine went on to be a facilitator of the program, as well as its sister program, MoState LEAD (Emerging Leaders). It was the first step Divine took in finding his place and campus family.

Valued perspectives

Divine has a bit of advice he wishes he could tell his past-self before arriving at MSU.

“Your sexual orientation and identity are not crutches. Use them to help others grow,” Divine said. “Let people ask you questions and be willing to answer them.”

Divine said each student has a unique perspective that they should consider bringing to campus organizations that interest them. Everyone has a perspective of value, Divine added.

“Remember to make it about growth,” Divine said. “Be you, create your own path and love who you love.”

LGBTQ+ History Month

October marks LGBTQ+ History Month, founded in 1994 by a Missouri high school teacher.

What does the month mean for students like Divine?

“This month is one that humbles me. Through the struggles still faced by the community we are able to reflect on what the members of the past went through. It’s a time to remind ourselves that we are still here, we are here to stay, and here to fight for our equality.”