Each fall, Michigan State University students come together for Spartan Day of Service, a campuswide initiative that encourages students to give back to communities across Michigan. For the Intercultural Aides, or ICAs, on campus, this day is more than just volunteering; it’s a reflection of their mission to build community, raise critical consciousness and foster meaningful connections.
In the weeks leading up to the event, ICAs actively encourage their fellow residents to participate. Through conversations in residence halls, outreach during roundtable discussions, and personal invitations, they help students understand the purpose of the service and how their involvement can make a difference. This peer-to-peer recruitment helps create a welcoming and inclusive environment where students feel supported and inspired to join.
On Oct. 4, more than 70 ICAs and accompanying students traveled to the MSU Detroit Partnership for Food, Learning, and Innovation, or DPFLI, to participate in urban farming and sustainability efforts. From pulling weeds and applying compost to harvesting peppers and mulching garden beds, students worked side by side to support local food systems and strengthen ties between MSU and Detroit communities.
Service rooted in purpose
For junior plant biology major Isabella Smith-Corso, the ICA role is deeply personal. “Going to roundtable discussions provided me with a sense of community at a time when I really needed it,” she shared. “I wanted to provide that to other students by becoming an ICA.”
Isabella’s work at DPFLI involved composting and weeding, but what stood out most was the energy of the group. “Seeing how excited people were to get involved and get outside reminded me how important those things really are,” she said. “Service projects like this connect directly to our ICA goals — building vibrant community and raising critical consciousness.”
Connection through collaboration
Senior Maitreya Wankhede, majoring in human resources and labor relations, emphasized the power of teamwork. “A moment that stood out to me was how the ICAs and residents worked together and delegated tasks,” she said. “Projects like this help ICAs connect and get to know their residents more. Bonding activities can build relationships that last even after college.”
Maitreya sees this service initiative as a way to break down barriers. “It allows students to bond with us more as friends rather than authority figures,” she explained. “Having support when there’s a lot on your plate can help balance your energy and prevent burnout.”
Service as a bridge
Second-year electrical engineering major Nathan Sirak brought a global perspective to his ICA role. Raised in Zimbabwe by Eritrean parents, Nathan understands the challenges of cultural transition. “I wanted to help others find a sense of belonging and community, especially those who might feel out of place as I once did,” he said.
At DPFLI, Nathan’s team mulched garden beds to improve soil health and conserve water. “A moment that stood out was when people from nearby groups began helping unload mulch without needing to be asked,” he recalled. “That small act of teamwork perfectly embodied the spirit of service.”
Nathan believes projects like Spartan Days of Service have a dual impact. “For the community, these projects provide tangible benefits. For students, they foster empathy, teamwork, and a sense of purpose beyond campus life.”
A lasting impact
Each ICA walked away from this fall’s Spartan Day of Service with a renewed sense of purpose. Isabella gained appreciation for the planning and collaboration behind the scenes. Maitreya was reminded of the importance of support systems. Nathan saw firsthand how small acts of collaboration can lead to meaningful change.
Together, these ICAs exemplify the heart of the Spartan spirit: serving with intention, building bridges, and creating spaces where every student feels seen, heard, and valued.
All MSU students are welcome to join ICAs at their weekly RTDs. 2026-27 applications for the ICA position are now open.
