To gather context around the problem statement we began with researching what leads to problems such as micro-aggression and cultural-bias and how to increase cultural awareness. We found that "projected similarity" or the act of assuming others to have a similar way of thinking, leads to the risk that they are not. This then begins to form into stereotypes that then give birth to micro-aggression and racism. To increase cultural awareness it is necessary to focus on exposure and interaction between those of different cultures, and encourage learning rather than falling to assumptions.　

Over a two week period we gathered over 65 survey responses and interviewed 11 people of varying backgrounds ranging from a student born and raised in the US to an international student who had just moved to the US.

From the survey we gathered these statistics:

• 72% believed that the university needs to promote cultural diversity more
• 69% are willing to meet and attend an in person event to learn about other cultures
• 80% can speak more than one language

From the interviews we gathered these insights:

• "Food is definitely a way I like to celebrate other cultures."
• “I do not practice anything outside of my culture because it is not my culture to experience but　would if someone invited me."
• “People tend to prefer remaining stagnant in their knowledge of cultures since it is easier."
• “Learning about other cultures has helped me see why they do what they do and why their thinking is different from mine."