How Diverse is Penn State?

Hey all, I'm seriously considering Penn State for college but diversity is very important to me. Can any current or former students give me an idea on how diverse Penn State is?

Penn State, like many large, public universities, has been gradually increasing its commitment to diversity and inclusion. According to data from the university, Penn State enrolls students from all 50 U.S. states and more than 130 countries.

That said, here are some hard numbers. The undergraduate student body at Pennsylvania State University - University Park (the main campus) is predominantly white, at about 62%. African American students make up about 6% of the undergraduate population, Hispanic/Latino students are around 10%, and Asian students constitute about 8%. International students make up approximately 8% of the undergraduates.

Apart from racial and geographic diversity, Penn State also has a multitude of student-led organizations that promote cultural understanding and inclusivity. These clubs and organizations represent a wide range of cultures and backgrounds, and they often host events on campus which give students the opportunity to learn about different cultures.

However, these numbers and experiences can vary depending on the specific campus and college within Penn State. The demographics at smaller campuses or within certain undergraduate colleges might look different. Furthermore, diversity can mean more than just racial identity or nationality. Factors such as socioeconomic status, political views, sexual orientation, and religious beliefs also contribute towards creating a diverse community.

While these data points can provide some insight, your personal experience can greatly vary depending on the groups and activities you engage with while on campus. As a prospective student, you might want to reach out to the Office of Educational Equity or the Center for Spiritual and Ethical Development at Penn State to get a more nuanced understanding of the university's cultural, socio-economic, religious, and philosophical diversity.