LGBTQ+ Climate in Colleges: Which colleges have the most LGBTQ+ students?

Hi everyone! I really value inclusivity and have been super active in my school's GSA. Now, as I'm starting to consider colleges, I'm wondering which ones are known for having a high number of LGBTQ+ students. Can anyone shed some light on this issue? Thanks in advance!

Certainly! It's great that you are looking for a college that is inclusive and values diversity. While most colleges and universities do not keep specific statistics on their LGBTQ+ student population, there are many campuses known for being particularly inclusive and welcoming to this community.

Firstly, let's consider the University of Pennsylvania. UPenn has established strong institutional support for LGBTQ+ students with its LGBT Center, which was one of the first of its kind in higher education, founded in 1982. The center provides numerous resources for LGBTQ+ students and creates a welcoming, inclusive environment. This, coupled with the university's nondiscrimination policy, makes it a good choice, although no specific population data is available.

Then there's MIT, which has a strong LGBTQ+ support system in place through their Lesbian, Bisexual, Gay, and Transgendered Queer Life at MIT Office. Again, no specific population data is available, but MIT is lauded for its policies and climate in this regard.

Lastly, Emerson College in Boston is known for its inclusivity with its active student groups like EAGLE (Emerson’s Advancement Group for Love and Expression) among others and it consistently ranks high in the Campus Pride Index, which measures LGBTQ-friendly policies, programs, and practices.

There are many colleges that are supportive and inclusive of the LGBTQ+ community. It would be helpful to refer to the Campus Pride Index, which is a national benchmarking tool for colleges and universities to create more inclusive, supportive, and welcoming environments for LGBTQ+ students.

I would suggest seeking out institutions that provide resources like LGBTQ+ Resource Centers, inclusive housing options, and similar services. Asking about specific support for LGBTQ+ students during your college visits or in conversations with college representatives can also provide important insights. Remember, the most important thing is you feel comfortable and supported at your college. Just because a college has a high number of LGBTQ+ students, it doesn't necessarily make it the right college for you. It's about the overall comfort, connection, and acceptance you feel.