So I got accepted into Lehigh University and I’m very much considering enrolling. However, I’ve been reading up a lot online and have heard a few things that give me second thoughts. Thus I inquire, how would a black, lower-middle class student that’s as of now not quite interested in Greek life fit in at what I’ve heard is a very homogenous, preppy, Greek oriented, and even somewhat prejudiced school? I’d like to attend Lehigh, but I certainly do not to have to worry about being discriminated against because I’m of a darker skin tone, or because I don’t wear all the name brands everyone else does, etc. Are my worries exaggerated, or are they legitimate?
As the parent of a well-adjusted and happy student there with a broad group of friends that includes all races, sexes, religions, economic classes, regions of the country and world, it’s a little troubling reading stuff like this:
“…very homogenous, preppy, Greek oriented, and even somewhat prejudiced school…”
The best advice I can give is if you are open to being sociable and meeting people without already having preconceived opinions about people you’ve never met, then you will find your niche at any college. If you have already filled your mind with opinions that might or might not even be accurate, then that’s probably what you’re going to find, whether it’s true or not.
A lot of life experiences often become what we create. Wherever you decide to matriculate, please keep an open mind. If you already believe something to be a certain way, you will probably see it everywhere you look. If you carefully weigh your options and truly try to find the best match for you, then please enjoy your college experience. Be open to new things, go out and meet new people, be yourself, and most of all, dedicate your energy to academics first.
There will be students at every college that have found people that fit your description, seriously, at every college. If someone is a jerk, move on and know that’s their problem. It might not have anything to do with skin color or decision to join a fraternity or sorority, it could just be that it’s not a nice person.
I probably haven’t answered your question very well, but I do want you to enjoy wherever you decide to matriculate. Lehigh has been the best decision and a perfect match for my college student, but he put a lot of honest effort into his decision. When he got there, he put himself out there and made great friends. He didn’t sit in his room or judge anyone. Everyone is different. Just because it’s a great match for my child doesn’t mean it will be the same for someone else. Do know, though, that what you’re worried about hasn’t been his experience.
Read some of the other threads and you will hopefully see some comments from students. Anonymous comments on boards don’t always equate to reality. Trust your gut instincts and best of luck.
Well said @marky95.
Nice post Marky95.
Great response Marky95 something everyone should follow when opening new doors in the road of life.