When the concept of diversity comes up here at William Peace University, a prime example is this year's alternative fall break trip to Appalachia Service Project in Jonesville, VA.
We took a group of kids from a wide range of perspectives, backgrounds and interests to experience the ostensibly foreign lands of Appalachia first hand. Most, if not all, the kids going had never been to a place like Jonesville, much less interacted with people like those we would meet.
However, their maturity and genuine interest in understanding their surroundings were second to none. Our varied perspectives allowed us all to see a part of the world differently than we had ever before. Stories were shared, connections were made, and stereotypes fell away.
As our Pacers shared insights into what they saw, it was easy to fully appreciate each of the different lenses being used to view their experiences. At the end of the day, it was a great joy to watch Peace students learn that no matter their reasoning, or approach, we were all there struggling, sweating, and working toward the common goal of helping those in need.
