Historically, have colleges in America done enough to prevent segregation on campus?

Feeling uneasy about some articles I've found on college segregation. For folks in college now or who recently graduated, how do you feel about your campus' diversity? Was there any noticeable segregation? Ain't trying to spend my college years in an environment that replicates school segregation, y'know?

Your concern is definitely valid and speaks to the broader issues of equality and inclusivity that campuses across the U.S. are trying to address. While there has been progress made in many institutions with regard to diversity and inclusivity, it's safe to say there's still a lot of work to be done.

Many universities have taken steps to promote diversity by broadening admission strategies, introducing scholarships and financial aid packages for underrepresented groups, and launching initiatives and programs aimed at fostering inclusivity and understanding among diverse student bodies. There's also been an increased emphasis on education around social justice issues across all disciplines.

However, even with these initiatives, instances of self-segregation often occur. This is often driven by students’ desire for comfortable, familiar spaces and can result in distinct in-groups and cliques forming on campus. This isn't exclusive to racial or ethnic lines; it can also occur along lines of socioeconomic status, nationality, or areas of study.

As for your personal experience, it will greatly depend on the school and even specific major or department. Universities in urban areas, for instance, typically house more diverse student bodies than rural or suburban institutions. Additionally, certain departments or majors can also have more or less diversity depending on various factors.

It’s also important to keep in mind that universities are microcosms of our broader society. Consequently, they often reflect the systemic and societal issues we grapple with outside of campus boundaries. That being said, many universities are proactively working to ensure their campuses are embracing diversity and are inclusive spaces.

So, before selecting a school, thoroughly research its demographics, diversity programs, student organizations, as well as its social climate as reflected in student reviews, news articles, and forums. This research will help you gauge whether a school aligns with your personal expectations for diversity and inclusivity.