<p>Hello I know this topic has been discussed before in terms of Vanderbilt’s campus, but as of surrounding areas how do current minority students (particularly blacks and Hispanics) feel about racial tensions in Nashville? I’m wondering whether or not to apply to a more southern school like Vanderbilt or a more liberal northern school where race isn’t always a problem? My teacher who lived in Tennessee in the 80’s said that there were lynchings and beatings of black men in interracial marriages when he was there and advised that I look elsewhere for college, but I’d like to believe that the region has changed since then? Responses would be appreciated.
thank you</p>
<p>key word: 80s</p>
<p>you’ll have to really work hard at finding racial tension</p>
<p>Your teacher probably did NOT live in Nashville in the 80s. Tennessee, like ALL states, encompasses a wide range of geography, politics, and attitudes. And, like many other places, it has progressed over the last several decades.</p>
<p>Vanderbilt Univ. makes a very big point of getting its students out into the Nashville community, volunteering at schools, hospitals, after-school programs, etc. Being an active, progressive part of the larger community is a major focus, and one of the reasons for that is to dispel the notion that Vanderbilt is an elite world unto itself. I would think that if racial tensions were severe, they would have trouble getting any of their black students to participate, but it is my impression that minority students are very avid participants in those initiatives. The wary attitude of your teacher is understandable, but I think you should visit the school and get a first-hand look.</p>
<p>vandy is probably MORE accepting and respecting when it comes to minorities. Its a stereotype that people are racist down here. Everybody, no matter who they are, will find a group of friends, and not have to worry about being lynched or discriminated against. It is probably more accepting than other Northern colleges, being that there is such a wide range of students from around the country who are cognoscente of racial issues. Like many URMS before you (such as myself) you will come to vanderbilt, learn at vanderbilt, and love vanderbilt.</p>
<h2>One out of four students at Vandy is not white. Over half of the students come from areas outside of the south and Vandy is in a very safe area with no race-relation problems. </h2>
<p>I wouldn’t brand all areas of the south (or even all of TN) with the same generalizations. Davidson County is one of the most progessive areas in the south.</p>
<p>i had this same question in my head. just never got the cohones to post it in a thread though. i’m visiting in november, so i guess i’ll be able to see for myself.
p.s. i’m a URM too if you can’t tell from my display name</p>