I heard this from a friend...

nefariousyank
Wed, 15 Apr 2009 00:56:08 +0000

I am a black student at W&L and I would like to set the record straight a bit. First off, I love Washington and Lee. I am happy with my decision. After three years at this school I am proud of what I have accomplished here. I have friends in the black and international community. But, I also have friends in the greek scene (which is predominately white).

W&L is predominately white. The student body is overwhelmingly homogeneous as far as socio-economic and cultural background. For some students, that is one of the attractions of the school. This year, there were a total of 66 African American students on the undergrad side. Small back community met with large homogeneous white community, of course there will be some conflict, prejudice and misunderstandings. I’m offended that people assume that just because we have a biracial president means that an “old south” school like W&L is the picture perfect model for culturally integrated college campus. That is not the case. And, it is not the case for this nation. Electing President Obama is a huge step. A wonderful step for this country. But let’s not pretend that racism and prejudice is dead. Don’t be ashamed for being curious about the cultural climate on a campus. That makes you a smart college hunter. Smarter than I was when I looked into W&L.

If you come to W&L it is inevitable that you will face prejudice and racist situations that you may not encounter at a better culturally balanced school. There are some students that never grew up around students of color and it makes them uncomfortable. Sometimes it’s a simple misunderstanding/misconception, that needs to be corrected by a mature and patient multicultural student.

Personally, I have had racial experiences that I never thought that I would have to go through in the 21st century. But, I argue that it is getting better. Comparing what W&L was when my alum friends were freshman and what it is now…the change is incredible. The racist students on campus are in the minority and tend to keep their opinions to themselves. The most trouble you would get is sitting in a politics class (liberals vs. conservatives…if you’re on the liberal side, I hope you know your stuff, you will definitely be out numbered)

In my opinion, the road goes both ways. There are black students that have let a few bad experiences influence the entirety of their college career. Those students limit their experiences at W&L. If you go into W&L looking for a race fight, you’ll find it. But, if you go in, live your life, concentrate on your passions and education, and try to get to know people for more than their boat shoes and madras blazers, you’ll find that W&L has a lot to offer you.