Concerned about College Atmospheres

Hey all, it's important for me to go to college in a diverse and accepting environment. I've heard some campuses have some issues, so which colleges are considered the most racist in the US? Hopefully, I can avoid them in my application process.

While it's understandable that you want to study in an atmosphere where you feel safe, welcome, and respected, it's not really productive or accurate to label any college as "the most racist." There have been unfortunate incidents at many institutions, but it would be a broad generalization to categorize a whole college or its student body as racist based on singular events.

On the other end of the spectrum, there are definitely colleges that are well-known for fostering diversity and inclusion. Institutions such as Rice University and Pomona College frequently receive high marks for diversity on campus, both in terms of race and ethnicity, and in regards to other elements of identity such as sexual orientation and socioeconomic background.

University of California schools, such as UC Berkeley and UCLA also have strong reputations for diversity and acceptance, as they cater to the diverse California population.

Many liberal arts colleges, like Swarthmore and Amherst, have also made significant strides in fostering inclusive campuses that champion diversity.

But still, the biggest determinant of your experience will be your individual perspective and attitude. Engagement with your peers, participation in clubs and activities, and open communication can shape your experience more than statistics or hearsay. Having a friendly, open, and accepting disposition is a proactive step in making your college journey comfortable anywhere you go.

It's also worth noting that colleges strive to improve their inclusivity standards and practices. Read college mission statements and diversity initiatives when researching schools. See if their values align with yours.

Lastly, when you do visit campuses, talk to current students or alumni to gain first-hand insight into the particular college culture. Their experiences can give you a better understanding of what it's like to be a student at that school.