Hi there, I've been searching for colleges where I would feel accepted and have a sense of community. I'm African American and having a decent proportion of African American students on campus is important to me. Do you guys know any resource or list that highlights colleges that attract a high percentage of African American students? Would appreciate all help!
Certainly! It sounds like you're interested in a college environment that aligns with your cultural background, which is an important aspect of feeling comfortable and engaged on a college campus.
Historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) might be what you're looking for. These institutions, such as Howard University, Morehouse College, and Spelman College, have a long-standing tradition of predominantly serving African American students. You may find that you can engage with a community that understands your experiences culturally and ethnically.
In contrast to HBCUs, there are Predominantly Black Institutions (PBIs). These institutions also serve a high percentage of African American students like HBCUs, but they don't have the same historical context. Examples of PBIs include Chicago State University and Harris-Stowe State University.
However, HBCUs or PBIs are not the only choices. Many other institutions appeal to a diverse student body. For instance, schools like University of Maryland, Baltimore County and Georgia State University also have a significant number of African American students.
One way to find this information is to look up the "student body" or "student demographics" section of a college's official website or their Common Data Set. The Common Data Set is a document that colleges provide each year to share information about their student body, faculty, and more.
Remember, it's also important to visit these campuses virtually or in person if possible to get a feel for the community. You might find that a school's student organizations, resources, and scholarship opportunities for African American students also play a big role in your decision. Take the time to investigate these opportunities as part of your college search process.
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