This year writing for The Dialog, I have covered stories that have affected me deeply and will remain with me for a long time.

By Karen Nickel

This year writing for The Dialog, I have covered stories that have affected me deeply and will remain with me for a long time. These were about accessibility and equity rights for students who experienced discrimination due to deafness or hearing issues; disability; transphobia; homophobia; racism; ethnicity; status; gender and our fellow students and their families who are struggling with food security.

Through writing these articles, I met students and individuals who are working hard to improve students’ experiences in college and in their life in general. I found this truly inspiring and encouraging for the health and success of our student population.

I have, unfortunately, been horrified by the insensitivity of some college faculty and administration members who seem willing to turn a blind eye to discrimination and abuses of students in their college programs. Many of these students having put considerable time, money and hard work into programs only to see their dreams trivialized by insensitive remarks and jeopardized by inconsistent teaching methods.

I encourage all students to stand up for their rights and advocate for what they need.

 I am grateful to have worked with the incredible Dialog team, especially reporter Preetesh Singh and editor Mick Sweetman, thank you.