YouIDs & Trending Topics
Want to build community on a deeper level by discussing diverse identities or a current multicultural issue?
Host a YouID or Trending Topic session! You’ll be amazed at what you learn, even about people you thought you already knew!
YouIDs and Trending Topic sessions are offered through the Common Ground Multicultural Dialogue Program in the Department of Resident Life. Both of these programs are facilitated by trained, undergraduate Peer Dialogue Leaders.
How do I set up a YouID?
Contact commonground@umd.edu and provide potential dates and times, as well as what organization you are from. A staff member will schedule Peer Dialogue Leaders to facilitate your event and help you with all of the details!
YouID Description:
YouIDs are popular one-session peer-led discussions about identity. In each YouID, participants discuss broad dimensions of identity that exist in multicultural communities, and then each person is invited to share important aspects of his or her personal identity with the rest of the group. This can involve description, story-telling, reflections on important life moments, anything that participants wish to share about who they are and factors that have shaped their identity. Group members are also encouraged to ask each other questions about their stories to gain increased insight and understanding.
Trending Topic Description:
Trending Topic sessions are one-session peer-led discussions on a current hot topic that relates to diversity. This program focuses on how these issues influence diverse individuals in different ways. Past topics have included perceptions of diversity at UMD, cultural and race-based mascots in sports, portrayals of race in the media, and the media’s influence on body image. Feel free to contact Common Ground staff on what topics may be beneficial for your program!