What's the student population like at CU Boulder? I'm interested in the diversity and size of the student body. How does that impact the campus culture and social scene?
The University of Colorado Boulder has a relatively large student population with close to 35,000 students, about 30,000 of which are undergraduates. While the student body is somewhat diverse, it's worth noting that the majority of students are white, comprising about 66% of the undergraduate population. Asian students constitute around 6%, Black students comprise about 2%, and Hispanic students make up around 11%.
Having a large student body affects the campus culture in several ways. An advantage is that there are a lot of opportunities for you to meet different kinds of people and make friends in various social circles. With a larger campus size comes more diverse interests and activities, so you're likely to find a club or organization that aligns with your interests.
On the downside, a large student population can sometimes make campuses feel overwhelming, especially to students who are coming from small high schools or prefer more intimate learning environments. Classes, particularly general education or popular classes, can be quite large with sometimes hundreds of students. This makes interactions with professors a bit more challenging, and cases where students feel like just a number in the crowd can happen.
In terms of the social scene, you can expect a fairly active one. The large student population allows for a variety of social events, activities, and parties throughout the year that you can attend. Sports are also a big part of the social scene, as CU Boulder has a strong presence in Division 1 athletics, particularly in football and basketball, which attract many student spectators.
All things considered, CU Boulder's large student population can make for an enriching college experience depending on what you are looking for. The important thing is to weigh up these factors against your own preferences and learning style.
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