University of GeorgiaDiversity Summary

Written by Christopher Joshua Benton

Christopher Joshua Benton

Hometown

Norfolk, VA

Major

English/Magzine Print Journalism/New Media

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There is not a lot of diversity on UGA's campus. Considering that the state population of Georgia is about 30 percent black, the fact that only five percent of UGA's student population is African American is, perhaps, a reason for concern. A new program called the African American Male Initiative has been instituted to improve diversity on campus. With this program, black high school and middle school students will be targeted and guided by counselors and other educators on which school is best for them. Because nearby Atlanta has so many Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU's), it has been hard for UGA to recruit African American students. There is a noteworthy number of Asian and Indian students on campus. Many TAs and professors are of Asian or Indian descent, as well. And even though the Hispanic population in Georgia is growing rapidly, the Hispanic student population at UGA has remained consistently under five percent over the years.

There is a lot of Old South spirit alive at UGA-many fraternities still fly the Confederate flag every now and again. Because UGA is so predominantly white, this is a fairly common theme. People are not usually racist or critical towards one's race, but the undercurrent is still there. The good news is that the minority students and clubs on campus seem to be very involved and close-knit. In conclusion, a student's social circle at UGA could be composed of all walks of life, but they should keep in mind that the path they'll be treading on will ultimately lead through the Deep South.