Around campus, many of us have been receiving invitations for the PLUS program, clueless of what PLUS really is. Peer Leaders Uniting Students is what the acronym stands for, and it is going to be hitting our campus soon.
The invitation mentions a meeting on Wednesday that explained the program’s goal. For those of us who are still unclear, PLUS is a way to bring students together to resolve problems on campus. Those who are interested are urged to apply and attend a seminar to get a feel of what participating will be like. Hosting about 60 to 70 students, eight to 10 elite leaders will be chosen to operate the future forums. The idea is that this program will be run by students, for the students.
Diversity is a key concept in the discussions we will have. We will be resolving issues and coming together in a positive way. Everything the PLUS program has mentioned will take place this year and carry on to the next, such as forums, training and other activities. Most of the focus will be put on problems that have yet to be solved, or something a majority think should change. The issues that are brought up will be analyzed and taken into further consideration together as a whole.
We agree with S3 grant coordinator Linda Roberts who says that students trust each other. We feel that this concept will prove itself true throughout the many planned forums. Of course in the beginning it will be a little tough to open up, but that is what Roberts wants to see happen. She would like to eventually see us all work together and be able to communicate on a more comfortable level.
With all the news about shooting in schools and other violent crimes taking place, it is perfect timing. In order to reduce the chances of these types of crimes occurring on Stagg’s campus, bringing the school’s community together as one is a mighty idea. Since the PLUS program is merging members of every group, or clique, then it will be much easier to resolve conflicts with solutions that best suit everybody on campus.
Those being referred into this group, should take advantage of it. However, many people are beginning to dismiss the program, before they completely understand. Unlike Conflict Mediators whose information is between the program and the involved participants, PLUS will not be focused on any individual. In fact, that is looked down upon by Roberts and other staff members who promote joining the program. The goal is to be one, to highlight the sense that we are all equals, so there will be no need to work alone.
PLUS does contain a lot of positive promises that we hope will not be as hidden, but it all depends on the participation of the students.
This is why we support the impact PLUS is trying to bring and enforce. If all the students who received the letter put it into consideration, then we can all work to make PLUS successful and create more of a family atmosphere.
