SMU & Lack of diversity?

<p>I know it's stupid and immature to actually believe stereotypes however this continues to be an issue for me. Over the past couple of months I've developed a strong interest in SMU and I am visiting very soon actually.
However, I'm not well-to-do or Caucasian. I'm not poor, but you won't catch me with the latest Louis Vuitton or BMW.
I do hope to join a sorority also, but that's intention even if I do not attend SMU.</p>

<p>So, is diversity really an issue? Will me not being Caucasian or rich cause social issues in the long run?</p>

<p>@LocaCrazyyy There’s much more diversity at SMU than I was expecting when coming here. (Keep in mind, I came from a middle class, predominately Caucasian high school.) I feel SMU is really trying to have a more diverse student body. There are many multicultural organizations on campus. You can find a list of them here: [Student</a> Organizations - Student Activities - SMU](<a href=“http://smu.edu/studentactivities/organizations/]Student”>http://smu.edu/studentactivities/organizations/)</p>

<p>With the money issue, I don’t think there are many people who will judge you for not carrying the latest Louis Vuitton or driving a BMW. However, you may feel a little like an outsider for not having those things. Not everyone at SMU comes from a wealthy background but the stereotype still definitely exists here. I have to work in order go to school here. Sometimes it’s frustrating being around many people who don’t understand the value of a dollar, like I do. (I know that’s cliche.) The fact that you don’t fit the stereotype shouldn’t be a problem when rushing. There are a few sororities that have a snobby reputation, but I don’t think it will be hard for you to figure out which girls you relate to. Rush is second semester at SMU, so you’ll have a whole semester to learn about each sorority and their reputations. </p>

<p>When you visit soon, I think you’ll be able to better understand the atmosphere here and decide whether or not it’s for you. Good luck with your decision! I hope I’ve helped.</p>

<p>Wow, I visited today & was completely shocked and surprised. While there are those who fit the stereotype, it’s completely different than I imagined. The people were super nice and very helpful. When we ate lunch I noticed they were very down to earth. Everyone knew everyone and talked to everyone, regardless of race or appearance or whatever.
I fell in love to be honest. My mom was surprised also</p>

<p>Hi LocaCrazyyy,
I’m so glad that you enjoyed your time here. I am a sophomore advertising major here and I’m Hispanic. Diversity was a big issue for me as well coming to college, but I have found that the multi cultural groups on campus are very active and inviting. My first year roommate was Korean and she quickly fell into all the different Asian organizations. There are definitly more Caucasions here, but I can still feel surrounded by Hispanics whenever I go to ALPFA events. Hope this helps! BTW, I love it here too :)</p>

<p>There was a report that SMU has a higher acceptance record for hispanics but a lower retention rate than other minorities. Just wondering if it is because of economic reasons or because of a difficult atmosphere because of all the immigration issues. It is a very right wing school and just wondering if the general student population is inviting of hispanics in general.</p>