LGBU creates new support for first-years

New program pairs first-years with older LGB students

The Lesbian Gay and Bisexual (LGB) Union has joined the ranks of Oberlin organizations that have programs to introduce first-year and new students to older students.

The LGB big brother/big sister program was created at the start of this semester by Dee Wells, Multicultural Resource Center (MRC) intern and OC '95.

"I wanted to have a program that connected first-years with older LGB students here, getting them acquainted with the community and introducing them to some people who they might not meet normally," said Wells.

Started in August, the big brother/big sister program has only sponsored a few events, but all of them have gone well, according to Wells. The gatherings have included both on-campus events, such as ice cream socials and a bonfire Wednesday night, as well as a trip to the Coventry in Cleveland.

While other organizations have had systems similar to this one, Wells said that to her knowledge, "It's the first time that a mentoring program in the queer community has been organized." Although the ideas behind the program came from other minority groups around campus, Wells said, "I tried to have a couple of events that would have queer students come together."

Wells said that she was pleased with the number of people involved in the new program as well, with 42 total, split evenly between older and younger members.