The purpose of the program, being of Color in College is not only responding to, but to preempt socially and systemically constructed misconceptions about the experience of the college student of color. The program allows students to engage in a developmental dialogue and begin a discourse focused on understanding and acceptance. This program encourages all students to observe university life from a perspective other than their own.

We had a diverse group of panelists from several ethnicities and walks of life sharing their experiences. Students had the opportunity to voice their opinions, concerns, and most importantly, inform themselves about a community you may not be familiar with. We put emphasis on the struggles and differences a student of color experiences in college. Students engaged in current events as well as past experiences. The event was mediated by Dr. Regina Bernard-Carreno, the assistant professor in the Department of Black and Hispanic Studies at Baruch College. We had male and female student panelists representing the following ethnicities: African American, Caucasian, Latino, South East Asian, African Decent, and Caribbean Decent. The panelists discussed the meaning of diversity and the issue of segregation among minorities themselves. The discussion further went on to address stereotypical views held by the general public pertaining to different minority groups, noting that many people view countries in a negative light and even though it may be promoted by mainstream media, it might not necessarily be true.

The program was tremendously successful because it met and developmentally brought new insight to a perceived need among the campus community. Students involved in the program were able to speak to the extent of their understanding of the experience of the student of color, whether they were students of color themselves or not.