What's the diversity like at Temple University?

As an international student, diversity is a big factor in my college choices, and Temple University has caught my eye. I’ve heard good things about its academics, but I'd like to understand more about the student body. What's the campus culture like? How diverse is it in terms of ethnicity, international students, etc.? If any students could share their experiences, that would be amazing!

Temple University, located in Philadelphia, is quite diverse and international student-friendly. There's a large international student population with students coming from nearly 130 different countries. This makes for a richly diverse and inclusive environment, where all students are encouraged to share their unique experiences and perspectives. Currently, there are nearly 2,000 international students at Temple University.

In terms of ethnic diversity, the university is home to students of multiple ethnicities. While the majority of the student body identifies as White, there is a substantial representation of African American, Asian, Hispanic/Latino, and biracial or multi-ethnic students, among others. It's worth noting that the school has numerous cultural and ethnic clubs that host festivals, cultural events, and educational programs, adding to the sense of inclusiveness and cross-cultural understanding. Students often mention how these clubs can make a large campus feel a bit more like home.

Furthermore, Temple University has a strong commitment to fostering an inclusive environment. The university has offices and initiatives devoted to promoting diversity and inclusion, such as the Office of Institutional Diversity, Equity, Advocacy, and Leadership (IDEAL).

The urban setting of the university ensures a blend of cultures, preparing students for the global workforce. However, city life is not for everyone. Some students love the energy and opportunities of being in a vibrant city like Philadelphia, and some students prefer a more traditional, contained campus.

Remember, diversity can extend beyond just ethnicity or origin. It can also refer to economic background, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, and much more. Temple does quite well in these areas, too, as the student body represents a wide range of socio-economic backgrounds, religions, and identities.

Remember, the best way to get a feel for a campus’s culture and diversity is to visit or, if that’s not possible, to take a virtual tour and speak to current students or alumni if you can. You can also leverage social media and online forums to connect with current students and alumni. They might be able to provide firsthand insights into the diversity and inclusivity at the university.