Penn State
- Diversity

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There is no hiding the fact that white, middle-class students make up a large portion of the student body at Penn State. A large number of students come from suburban Pittsburgh or Philadelphia. Many classes, especially in the sociology department, are aimed at opening the dialogue between races. These classes have been very instrumental in creating an open and peaceful atmosphere on campus. Racially-motivated crime at Penn State has not been an issue for years.

It’s important to keep in mind that State College is surrounded by rural areas with an even less diverse population. The climate is by no means adverse to minorities, but it may not be as accommodating as larger cities and more diverse college towns. The political leaning of central Pennsylvania is generally conservative. While different cultural and personal backgrounds are accepted around campus, this may not be the case when you’re away from the University’s grounds. More liberal residents agree that the best way of dealing with the close-mindedness of the area is through education and tolerance. Recent statistics have indicated that minority populations are increasing at Penn State, but they have a long way to go before the campus could be considered a modern day “melting pot.”

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Diversity at Penn State

sld5340

Elementary Education '14

5.0

A+

Represents Everyone

The campus is pretty rich in diversity. It is very celebrated at Penn State. There are a lot of clubs that celebrate different backgrounds and sexual orientations. All of these clubs can quite openly celebrate what they are about without having to worry about a lot of criticism. It is a very open and accepting environment.

May 18, 2012

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Diversity at Penn State

luvyalions33

Public Relations '12

1.9

C-

Mostly White Students from PA, but Accepting on Minorities.

White PA residents dominate the campus, but there are opportunities for minority students to get involved and there are widely accepted on campus. There are ethnic organizations and greek organizations. I am white, but I also have black, hispanic and asian friends as well as gay friends.

May 15, 2012

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Diversity at Penn State

maikathy

Microbiology '14

4.6

A

Acceptance

At Penn State whether it's professors or students, everyone is open to help one another. This campus feels like home because no matter what race you are, people are willing to help and befriend one another. People on campus also don't judge by economic background, sexual orientation, religion, or political beliefs. It feels good to be at a campus where everyone is friendly to each other.

Apr 30, 2012

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Photos of Penn State's Diversity

100 Thomas Building

Photo by qtpiektw

100 Thomas Building Thomas Building is comprised of both small and large classrooms. It is also home to the largest lecture hall on campus, 100 Thomas. This lecture hall holds up to 726 students. A class held in here that every student should take before they graduate is SOC119, "Race Relations" with Professor Sam Richards.

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Photo by qtpiektw

Free Hugs!

Photo by qtpiektw

Free Hugs! Every day when you leave your room and wander around campus, you are guaranteed to see students from a class or organization involving themselves in different activities. Students from a sociology class had to give "Free Hugs" out to random students for an assignment.

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Photo by qtpiektw

THON

Photo by qtpiektw

THON THON is the largest student-run philanthropy in the world, and it all started here! Since its start in 1977, THON has raised over $61 million for the Four Diamonds Fund. Student organizations raise money year-round for pediatric cancer. The hard work culminates in a 46-hour dance marathon when the total is revealed. THON 2010 raised $7,838,054.36. (Photo taken by Molly Gindin)

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Photo by qtpiektw

Student Survey Poll ResultsWhat's This?

How diverse is the student body in the following areas?

How diverse is your personal circle of friends in the following areas?

How accepting is the campus community as a whole toward someone who falls into the minority (ethnic, sexual, or religious)?

How would you best describe your personal political beliefs?

How would you best describe the political beliefs of campus as a whole?

Facts