Feeling Like You Belong: What Universities Can Learn from Two Powerful Theories

Ever felt like you didn’t quite fit in? Maybe you walked into a room and thought, Do I really belong here? That feeling is more common than you think—especially for students navigating the complexities of university life. But what if we told you there are ways to make everyone feel like they matter? Let’s dive into two fascinating theories that can help universities create environments where students thrive: Abes and Jones’ MMDI/RMMDI and Schlossberg’s Marginality and Mattering/Belonging. Don’t worry—we’ll keep it simple and practical.

Your Identity Is a Puzzle: Abes and Jones' MMDI/RMMDI

Think of your identity as a puzzle with lots of pieces. Some pieces represent things like your race, gender, or religion. Others reflect your experiences, values, and how you see yourself. Abes and Jones’ Model of Multiple Dimensions of Identity (MMDI) says that all these pieces come together to form you. But here’s the twist: your puzzle isn’t set in stone—it changes depending on where you are and what’s happening around you.

For example:

• At home, you might feel more connected to your cultural identity.

• In class, you might focus more on being a student or leader.

The updated version of this model (RMMDI) takes it a step further by showing how outside influences—like societal expectations or campus culture—can shape how you see yourself. It’s a reminder that identity is fluid, not fixed.

Do I Belong Here? Schlossberg’s Marginality and Mattering

Now let’s talk about belonging. Schlossberg’s theory highlights two key feelings students experience:

1. Marginality: This is when someone feels like they’re on the outside looking in. Maybe they’re a first-generation college student or part of an underrepresented group. They might wonder, Am I good enough? Do I fit in here?

2. Mattering: This is the antidote to marginality. It’s when someone feels valued and important—like their presence makes a difference. Schlossberg breaks this down into five parts:

   • Attention: People notice you.

   • Importance: Others care about what happens to you.

   • Ego-extension: Your successes (and failures) matter to others.

   • Dependence: People rely on you.

   • Appreciation: Your efforts are recognized.

When students feel like they matter, they’re more likely to succeed academically and socially (watch John Maxwell's videos). It’s that simple.

What Does This Mean for Universities?

So, how can professors and student development teams use these ideas to create better experiences for students? Here’s the game plan:

1. Celebrate Diversity

Every student comes with their own unique “puzzle.” Professors should avoid making assumptions based on one aspect of a student’s identity. Instead, create opportunities for students to share their stories.

2. Foster Belonging

Small actions can make a big difference. Greet students by name, acknowledge their contributions in class, and encourage peer collaboration. These moments show students they’re seen and valued.

3. Design Inclusive Spaces

Think beyond the classroom—create campus spaces where everyone feels comfortable being themselves. This could mean hosting cultural events or providing quiet study areas for introverts.

4. Recognize Effort

Whether it’s through awards, shoutouts in class, or even a simple “thank you,” recognizing students’ hard work reinforces their sense of mattering.

5. Offer Support

Some students might struggle with marginality more than others—especially those from underrepresented backgrounds. Make sure resources like counseling services, mentorship programs, and academic support are accessible to everyone.

6. Train Faculty and Staff

Understanding these theories can help professors and staff better connect with students. Workshops on identity development and belonging could be game-changers.

Why This Matters

When universities embrace these ideas, they’re not just helping students succeed academically—they’re creating communities where everyone feels like they belong. And isn’t that what education is all about?

So next time you walk into a classroom or plan a campus event, ask yourself: How can I make sure every student feels like they matter? Because when students feel seen, supported, and connected, amazing things happen—for them and for the university as a whole.

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1st version - just a summary... Next, I'll turn it into a blog post; and hopefully, it's more engaging :)

Abes and Jones' MMDI/RMMDI

Imagine your identity as a complex puzzle. The Model of Multiple Dimensions of Identity (MMDI) and its Reconceptualized version (RMMDI) suggest that who you are is made up of many different pieces[1].

• Core Identity: This is like the center of your puzzle - it's the most authentic you.

• Social Identities: These are the puzzle pieces around your core, representing things like your race, gender, religion, or disability status.

• Contextual Influences: Think of these as the environment where you're putting your puzzle together. It could be your family, school, or society in general.

The key insight here is that your identities aren't fixed - they can shift and change depending on your context and experiences[1].

Schlossberg's Marginality and Mattering/Belonging

Now, let's talk about how you feel in different environments, like a university campus.

• Marginality: This is when you feel like you're on the outside looking in. Maybe you're a first-generation college student or from a different cultural background, and you're not sure if you fit in[2].

• Mattering: This is the opposite - it's when you feel valued and important. It's about knowing that people would notice if you weren't there[3][2].

The cool thing about mattering is that it has different aspects:

1.  Attention: People notice you're there.

2. Importance: Others care about what happens to you.

3.  Ego-extension: Your successes and failures matter to others.

4. Dependence: People rely on you.

5.  Appreciation: Your efforts are recognized[3].

Implications for University Professors and Student Development Teams

1.  Recognize Diversity: Understand that each student's identity is unique and complex. Don't make assumptions based on just one aspect of their identity[1].

2. Create Inclusive Environments: Design classrooms and campus spaces that make all students feel they matter, regardless of their background[2].

3.  Foster Connections: Encourage peer-to-peer relationships and mentoring programs to help students feel more connected and less marginalized[2].

4. Acknowledge Contributions: Regularly recognize students' efforts and achievements to reinforce their sense of mattering[3].

5.  Provide Support: Offer resources and support services that address the diverse needs of your student population[4].

6. Train Faculty and Staff: Educate university personnel about these theories to help them better understand and support students' identity development and sense of belonging[4].

By keeping these theories in mind, universities can create more inclusive and supportive environments where all students can thrive and develop their full potential.

References:

1.      https://advisortraining.wayne.edu/news/theory-corner-intersectional-model-for-multiple-dimensions-of-identity--42222  

2.     https://www.roompact.com/2024/09/theory-for-ras-and-student-staff-marginality-and-mattering/

3.      https://www.anthology.com/blog/how-are-your-students-doing-wellbeing-belonging-marginality-and-social-support-during-the  

4.     https://digitallibrary.usc.edu/asset-management/2A3BF1SFILAPO