Born and raised in a multi-racial home in Charlotte, NC, Stephanie Watkins-Cruz is a very proud advocate for all things diverse and inclusive. A full time student at UNC Asheville graduating in May 2015, she is studying Political Science and Sociology with the intention of pursuing her Masters in Public Policy and Administration in the Fall of 2015. Her writing focuses on a variety of topics, from racial identity and cultural competence to the journey through the challenges facing her and young adults or people in general. She writes in hopes of not being an expert on anything, but rather being a voice or a figure that people can connect and relate to, as well as learn with since we all know no one is perfect. Stephanie is the co-founder and current Managing Editor for the first ever multi-cultural newspaper on UNC Asheville's campus "Shades of Color" . Extremely active in several facets on campus from dance to philanthropy she is an active member of the campus community. In her free time she enjoys eating good food, dancing, blogging, or just spending time with family and friends.