Sociology major Jackie Malone ’18 grew up in a predominantly white community in East Tennessee. The first-generation college student describes it as a place where it seemed “everyone believed the same way, looked the same way, and was raised the same way.”

“I never had the opportunity to learn about different minority groups or anybody different than myself,” he said. “Coming to Berea totally rocked my world.”

Jackie learned about the opportunities Berea College provides through Upward Bound and Bonner Scholars, which gave him the chance to spend the summer on campus. Beyond the No-Tuition Promise Berea makes to all students, Jackie was drawn by our mission. “This idea that all people are created by one blood—this is really unique. Rarely do you find a place like Berea where diversity is so nicely intertwined with how the College functions. It feels really organic.”

Despite that, once on campus full time, Jackie still struggled at times with so many different perspectives than he was used to. “It was a little overwhelming at first. Not only does Berea embrace differences, but it encourages you to learn about them. You wonder, ‘is it rude for me to ask these questions?’ Upperclassmen encouraged me to just walk up and have a conversation. Now I can have that conversation, whether I’m building a long-term relationship or just having a conversation with someone at the airport.”

Initially a history major, Jackie became interested in social justice and changed his major to sociology. In conjunction with his studies, Jackie works with the Center for Excellence in Learning through Service (CELTS), where he has participated in training on social justice issues and student leadership, has worked as a tutor and volunteered to work with refugee populations.

One of the most touching events for Jackie occurred in 2015 when students, faculty, and staff came together for a demonstration in response to a spate of events where people of color and differing sexuality were being harassed by unknown actors driving through campus.

“On campus, there is this underlying idea of radical love. We had such a huge outcry for the people in our community who were experiencing hate. Hearing people say it is one thing, but watching the actions, seeing the signs and just knowing how the College stands—it makes me feel connected like this is home.”