Clockwise from left: An Indigenous student at an Indigenous Peoples’ Day celebration at the University of Arkansas, a member of the Rochester Institute of Technology AISES chapter at the school's 2023 Native American Heritage Month Kickoff Event, the McMaster University campus in Fall.
Welcome to the 2023–2024 Special College Issue of Winds of Change. I hope you will use the information in this issue to make your college experience more academically enriching and personally fulfilling.
If you are in the process of choosing a college that’s a great fit, you and your family are most likely doing some serious investigating. To make it easier, we’ve already done a lot of research and used it to put together our exclusive list of the “Top 200 Colleges for Indigenous Students.” To earn a place on this roster, colleges must meet several criteria as explained here. I hope you will make the most of this unique resource!
This issue can also support your college experience in other ways. You’ll find profiles of a variety of colleges starting here, a look at the vibrant AISES College Chapter at the Rochester Institute of Technology, highlights of tribal colleges and universities, and some of the many fine schools in Canada.
My favorite part of the College Issue is the personal stories students share.
The feature articles in this issue are positioned to help you overcome obstacles and succeed. “Making It … or Faking It?” discusses the challenge of imposter syndrome, with tips on what to do about this common but potentially debilitating self-doubt. Click here to read about how to use the proven system of SMART goals to stay on track.
My favorite part of the College Issue is the personal stories students share, especially because they are so motivated to help other Native young people find their way. One is Liam Wrixon, whose story can be found here. Liam was able to participate in a National Science Foundation–funded Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU). He was so eager to share his experience that he wrote an essay about what it meant to him, which you can read in "My REU Experience."
Zabari-Obyoni Bell, whose story can be found here, is another student who wants to support others. “My ultimate dream is to be in a position where I can encourage other Native students interested in science to pursue their goals,” she says. “Advocate for yourself and work hard. You will get to where you want to be, and maybe as part of my dream I will help you get there!”
Like Zabari-Obyoni’s dream, our mission at AISES is to help you get there. When you take advantage of what AISES has to offer — through chapters, conferences, programs, and publications like this one — you are participating in a dream the whole AISES family shares with you.
Ta’ Tura Tsiksu (With Much Respect),
Sarah EchoHawkPawnee Nation of OklahomaAISES President
Photos courtesy of University of Arkansas (main); RIT AISES Chapter; McMaster University (campus)