Accepting cultural differences

Intercultural Student Affairs at Emerson centers humanity, compassion, and education at the forefront of everything we do. We honor, celebrate, and validate the narratives of marginalized voices, and in turn, support community-based advocacy, reflection, and action. In short, we want to create and hold space where people can be who they are.

The SJC works with and supports individuals and communities through personal and systems advocacy, community-centered projects, and radical care. We believe in individual and community self-determination and work in support of the agency of students, faculty, and staff, especially those from marginalized groups. We engage in an ongoing practice of praxis—reflection and action—and work to deepen our own liberatory practices and to create liberatory spaces for others.

Emerson College boasts a vibrant array of student-run Cultural Organizations. While these groups are not staff-run departments, they serve as vital resources for students seeking community, understanding, and shared experiences. These organizations play a crucial role in promoting cultural awareness, diversity, and inclusion on campus.

Some cultural orgs have been around for decades while others have emerged much more recently to meet the current and evolving needs of our student community. These Cultural Organizations provide a space for students to find community, express their identities, and engage with others who share similar backgrounds and interests. They are an essential component of Emerson's commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive campus environment.

The Center for Spiritual Life is Emerson’s inclusive, multifaith hub for religious and spiritual programming, support, and education. Our team of chaplains and student leaders work to foster a campus environment where faith traditions and spirituality can be practiced freely and wholly. Through one-on-one conversations, retreats, lunches, and meditative gatherings, we seek to provide spiritual nourishment to our campus.

*Please note that the Campus Chaplain is the confidential resource in this office.

The Office of International Student Affairs (OISA) provides immigration and campus support services for Emerson’s international student community:

- We offer immigration advising for students in F-1 status, exchange visitors, and others on matters related to U.S. study, work authorization, and international travel
- We support international students with cross-campus resources for academic success, community integration, leadership development, and career preparedness
- We promote campus organizations, events, and initiatives that reflect Emerson’s global voice

International Student Affairs falls under Emerson’s Office of Internationalization and Equity (IE). Together with our partner offices – Education Abroad and Domestic Programs (EADP) and English Language Learning (ELL) – IGE provides strategic vision and support for college internationalization initiatives.

Emerson Wellness Center offers a variety of services to Emerson students. Counseling Services provides short-term psychotherapy, support and therapy groups, psychiatric consultation, referrals, crisis intervention, and outreach. All services are confidential.

The Student Handbook outlines Emerson College’s expectations regarding student academic and co-curricular experience, highlighting the responsibilities the students and College have to each other.