Iowa State UniversityDiversity Summary

Written by Staci Harper

Staci Harper

Major

English/Rhetorical Studies/Speech minor

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While it is true that a vast majority of students that attends Iowa State University is white, there is some diversity on campus, and it is celebrated. Iowa State is a very welcoming and accepting place, as it always has been. In 1891, George Washington Carver became the first African American to attend the Iowa State College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts. Carver excelled at Iowa State and was active in all aspects of campus life, such as the YMCA, the debate club, athletics, and he was captain of the campus military regiment. He eventually became the first African American faculty member at Iowa State.

If you're looking for a campus of like-minded individuals who will rally together for a cause, Iowa State is not the place for you. You can always count on others having the same beliefs or background as you, but it won't necessarily be a majority of the campus. The population at Iowa State is predominantly white, but few students will feel out of place because of their ethnicity, religion, or interests. If a large population of ethnic diversity is immensely important to you, Iowa State may not be the right place. On the other hand, while it isn't a widely diverse atmosphere, ISU is a very accepting place. People from all walks of life are welcomed and even celebrated at Iowa State.