By Santee Ross, University of Montana

Have you ever had plastic covering your head that you get the suffocating feeling of not breathing and panic erases any logic? That’s exactly what moving to a new place is like; especially when you don’t know a soul.

I moved from Wyoming to Montana to attend the University. When I moved I kept thinking to myself, “Oh my god, I don’t know anybody and I don’t think I can do this.”

Moving from a community where there is a HUGE population of Indians to a city that is mostly white was a culture shock.

American Indian Student Services is my refuge from that.

AISS is fairly new to the University of Montana campus. Their goal is to provide cultural, academic and social support to Native American students. Believe me they have met all those goals.

In the offices of AISS I found people who joke and tease. I found Fredricka Hunter, AISS director. Fredricka is always asking me how I am doing with school or life in general and is genuine in her concern. She always makes me feel welcomed—like my auntie away from home.

Within AISS I found a group of Natives who made the transition easier for me. They understand the need to connect with other Natives because obviously other people don’t understand it when we point with our lips.

It also doesn’t hurt that these same Natives are there to help me if I’m confused about my financial aid or I need help in a class.

AISS is very good about watching over their Native students and helping them succeed in all areas of their life.

They also provide free coffee in the morning.

Santee Ross (Hopi/Lakota) is from Lander, Wyo.