Hi, well I got into USD and may attend, but I read that it’s hard for people that are minorities to find friends (I’m Mexican-American). Is this true? Also is Greek life a MUST? I’m not very fond of fraternities so I don’t think I will join one but I really want a social life.
Congratulations on your acceptance! I’m currently a freshman at USD (although I’m planning to transfer after this academic year) and I’ll try to answer your questions to the best of my ability.
USD is not very diverse. After being on campus for a bit, you’ll start to get a certain vibe. Unfortunately, with a lack of diversity comes a lack of social awareness. I won’t get into this too much, though. I’m also a minority, and I’ve found the lack of diversity to be very unwelcoming. Although this is the climate of the general student body, if you really want to come here, there are several organizations on campus that cater to certain demographics.
To answer your question about whether or not it’s difficult for minorities to find friends… it depends on who you are. If you don’t mind a lack of diversity and fit in with the student body at large, you shouldn’t have a problem making friends. Just keep in mind that the school isn’t very conscious about race and racial issues. I’ve experienced racism in my time here, thus demonstrating the lack of awareness.
Greek life isn’t a must. There isn’t even Greek housing here. I’m female, so I can’t really attest to the fraternities here, but you don’t necessarily need to be involved in Greek life to have a social life. But who knows? Maybe you’ll learn more about the frats here and want to join one.
I hope my response helps you in making your decision. Feel free to ask other questions if you need to!
Hi there!
I’m a sophomore at USD currently and am hispanic. I don’t think it’s hard to find friends as a minority as long as you’re being open. I met the large bulk of my friends from my floor in the dorms freshman year. That’s also where I met my two roommates for this year who have turned out to be my best friends. They are also minorities and none of us have really had an issue meeting people. We don’t have a large social life simply because we prefer to keep a small close knit group of friends but it’s definitely possible. I can’t speak for the guys at USD but from what I’ve seen as a female, there isn’t really pressure to be in Greek life. You don’t really see much of it unless you’re in it.
Hope I helped! Good luck!