I got a likely from M&T and I’m very seriously considering Penn. My parents are a little worried about racism at Penn. What’s the situation like? Is there discrimination against asians!?
I’ve read a few articles of how racism can get pretty bad at Penn, and some have found it overwhelming, while others haven’t. I never saw anything specifically about Asians, but I know there’s a few articles online with African American students complaining about their experience
I’ve never experienced racism or prejudice of any kind at Penn. In fact, I know it’s one of the most accepting schools in the nation for the LGBT community. There is a very large asian community and a myriad of different organizations for asian students such as the Wharton China Business Society. M&T is a fantastic program, I certainly wouldn’t let this concern dissuade you. Best of luck with your decision!
My cousin goes to Penn and has never mentioned anything about racism. She’s a urm in an asian sorority and she’s had a pretty nice experience.
The recent incoming classes at Penn have been 20-25% Asian with a high concentration of those Asians being in Wharton or engineering (or pre med), so you’d hardly be an under represented minority. Is there something specific or an incident that concerns you?
The Asian community is huge and very welcoming here. Check out PAACH and say hi to Peter if you have any questions.
Racism is nonexistent, if anything there is a general vibe for some Asians to find other Asians and make their own social group, basically ignoring everyone else. Even then nobody really cares about that. Other than that everyone’s open about race, it’s the least of anyone’s worry, there are a ton of Asians here. People will be ultra jealous of you for being M&T, so go for it!
- Current Penn student
Like others have said, all the Ivy campuses have a much higher percentage of Asians than the gen’l population. ANd the non-Asian students have probably attended schools w/many Asians too. That alone should diminish the likelihood of overt racism.
Can it happen? Sure. But my guess that Penn’s likelihood of overt racism is much lower than other schools. The smallish and tolerant nature of schools like Penn severely champion diversity and inclusiveness. You’d be better off there than at a big state school if you’re looking to avoid it. But your parents’ concerns are unfounded. And gee, have some perspective – you’re not African American. Imagine going into the campus book store and having every sales associate watch you for fear of another shoplifting black shopper… and this happening to you every day, multiple times a day, for the rest of your life. And for your kids.
I don’t think this is fair. A stereotype is a stereotype and can be painful to the target. Not every Asian is good at math, has a tigermom, plays the violin, is focussed on test scores, etc., etc., etc.and it can be very difficult to be pre-judged no matter what race a person is born into.
The student asked a question and got some answers. I hope s/he is reassured.
@oldmom4896 I think you’re right. My perspective comes from my background. Chinese American who grew up in a middle class black community. I saw how my friends were treated yet I was given the pass. Body language shifted, tone was different from ppl w/black folks vs. a Chinese dude. Plus my personal encounters w/overt racism in my near 50 years (outside the school yard), can be counted on one hand.
Thanks to all of you. These replies were very helpful and they did assuage my worries about racism. I’m sold on M&T and I can’t wait to be there!
@T26E4, my daughter (adopted from China) and I (white) have lived in middle-class black communities for her whole American life so I know what you’re talking about! But I think that discussion is for another thread, if at all.
@BetterThanBest, I am glad you got the information you needed.
Many Asians at Penn, many Asian food carts and restaurants serving the entire student population near Penn and in Philly, including other than the standard “Americanized” Chinese food. My friend from Hong Kong and I would go to lunch in Philadelphia’s Chinatown section and she could walk in anywhere and order off the menu whatever she wanted. Indian food is very popular too.
Penn is more laid back than certain Ivies (okay, not more laid back than Brown, but…) and there is no concern for race or background unless you are pursuing a fraternity, sorority, or other group that is limited to a certain sector of the population. But those limitations are widely publicized.
M&T is great at Penn, tough but great. Congratulations!
I doubt Penn is racist. Maybe some international students from Asian countries will feel restricted to their peer group or something idk. I’m black and ive heard little about racism at Penn. I know there are a lot of asians which is not a problem because asian girls>>>>
Its the only school I know of that was founded by a founding father that was anti-slavery.