Rhode Island School of Design
- Diversity

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Diversity at RISD is a tricky issue. It does not just mean non-white non-Americans, but a mix of students from different backgrounds, socio-economic status, culture, and race. The predominant theme that categorizes RISD is white, upper-middle class, Christian female. There is also a large population of Koreans on campus and several other Asian ethnicities, but in general, there is not a whole lot of diversity. On the positive side, students make the most of the diversity that does exist at RISD, and most benefit from learning about one another and how people from different cultures and artistic backgrounds approach art and design problems. Most studio classes are set up to allow all students in the class to participate in critiques. Of course, everyone gives their input based on their personal backgrounds, aesthetics, and beliefs, so by having a diverse range of students in these intimate situations, there is a great deal of aesthetic exchange, and many students are able to expand their understanding of what their art can be. Especially relevant conversations center on gender politics in art, cultural identity, and product design for a world market.

There are always continuous efforts to expand the diversity of students at RISD. Most recently, there was a special effort made to financially assist students coming from poorer countries. These small strides are fully supported and sometimes initiated by the students. As RISD continues to make it easier for students from different backgrounds to come together, the new mix of students will be welcomed with open arms. The international and minority students that are at RISD enrich all students’ experiences, and the students are happy to have one another.

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Diversity at Rhode Island School of Design

jclems415

Architecture '15

4.2

A-

Known Worldwide

Rhode Island School of Design or (RISD) is known around the world for being the #1 art school in the United States. RISD being known around world will allow many cultures and ethnicity to be part of the RISD community.

Jan 03, 2012

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Diversity at Rhode Island School of Design

Andrewzors

Film and Video Studies '13

2.3

C

Koreans Galore

RISD is known for its largely Korean student demographic--about 30% of the students are Korean. This results in lots of cliques where many can feel alienated, not knowing the Korean language. Still there is a fair amount of diversity in the non-Asian community, just on the surface it is noticeably populated by Asian students.

Jul 09, 2010

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Diversity at Rhode Island School of Design

jluscher

'14

2.3

C

C

Most of RISD's students are inherently from wealthy backgrounds. There is not much financial aid, especially for international students, who tend to pay full price. (RISD is close to 1/3 international). African American, Hispanic and Indian students are rare, and the majority of the student body is either White or Korean. The Korean "subculture" at RISD is huge--a large majority of the international students are korean, and this can turn into a cultural and social clique. Religion seems not be play a big factor on campus at all, though the Korean student body seems almost universally Christian. Other than that, most students are outgoing, friendly, liberal, and accepting to all beliefs, backgrounds, religions and sexual orientations. The most alienating trait would probably be to be poor.

Jun 16, 2010

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Student Survey Poll ResultsWhat's This?

How diverse is the student body in the following areas?

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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?

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