Meaningful dialogue doesn’t happen by accident. It requires curiosity, courage and a willingness to engage with perspectives different from our own.
Through Dialogue Across Difference (DxD), WashU students are developing those skills in classrooms and conversations that encourage critical thinking, civil discourse and deeper understanding across lines of difference. Whether discussing politics, religion, race or personal identity, students learn how to listen, ask better questions and engage with complexity rather than shy away from it
We invited five students involved with DxD to share their experiences and reflect on the program’s impact. Their answers reveal how dialogue can expand perspectives, strengthen relationships and prepare students to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
See what our students are saying about DxD.
Ready to broaden your perspective?
Discover how Dialogue Across Difference is helping students build meaningful connections and navigate complex conversations.
Abraham Perry
“A moment from DxD that challenged my assumptions was hearing someone explain their support for a politician I didn’t agree with. This happened at the Longest Table event, and I’m glad it did. I asked them why they felt that way, and they asked me the same. Although I know we won’t agree on this topic, there’s mutual respect between us for being open with each other.”
Braden Hopkins
“DxD has taught me how to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and engage more meaningfully with the world around me. These experiences have given me the confidence to embrace new opportunities and participate more fully in my campus community. I don’t think I would’ve been nearly as inspired to get as involved on campus as I am now without DxD.”
Willa Garschagen
“Before taking DxD, I was more hesitant to approach difficult or stigmatized conversations because of the fear of disagreement and being judged. However, DxD showed me that by establishing community guidelines and agreements when entering conversations, you can feel confident expressing your opinions honestly and openly.”
Natalie Bruno
“DxD gave me the tools and confidence to ask thoughtful questions, build deeper connections and engage in conversations I might not have had otherwise. It has opened my world to new people, perspectives and ideas.”
DeMario Obeius
“Without DxD, I don’t think I would have been as open to different perspectives. I probably would have stuck to conversations with people who think like me and avoided viewpoints that challenged my own. DxD gave me the confidence to have those conversations, and it’s shaped how I engage in class, navigate friendships and think about a future in law and policy.”
Engagement & Belonging is one of the Division of Student Success’ anchors that delivers a transformative student experience. Student Success aspires to distinguish WashU as a place where every student feels a sense of belonging, has access to the resources they need to thrive, and develops the skills to engage thoughtfully across differences, building understanding, connection and community.