Historically Black Colleges and Universities vs. Predominantly White Colleges and Universities?

Question

I am african american and i wanted to know if it is better to attned an all black college or be around a diverse enviroment and attend a perdominantly white school. I know they have there pro's and con's. I would like to attend a large school in an urban setting. I want to hear your thoughts on this.

Answer 1

I teach at a predominantly White college, but I teach graduate students who have attended both types of schools. My experience is that the African-American students who do well in predominantly White institutions are those with an unusual amount of confidence in their own abilities. Students of color who struggle in college (and everyone, regardless of race or ethnicity does at some point) at these schools often feel the lack of a support system. Race is always an issue, as it is in larger society. As a consequence, when they lose confidence, they often fade into the background and do less well than they are capable of. My experience with students who attended undergraduate programs at HBCUs is that at that early point in college when they were really vulnerable and struggled, race just didn't enter into the equation, since everyone around them was the same, so they got past it and developed a self-assurance you don't often see among those at predominantly White schools. By the time they get to grad school (and I admit that those who go to grad schools are obviously the stronger students, but that is true of both groups), they know they are good and they know they can do it; they don't hesitate to speak out and participate fully. They have done their struggles in a more supportive environment and are ready for the broader world. I'm White and I've never set foot on an HBCU campus, but I've seen the results, and I have to say that I've been impressed (and let me add to that that I'm speaking of quality schools; not every HBCU, like every predominantly White college, is very good).

Answer 2

I will answer as a white professor at a predominantly white college.

I think the main thing is to find the best fit for you. College is what you make of it and new life experiences await no matter what path you choose. And both HBCUs and white colleges are going to have strong academic programs, open doors for your future careers, and yes have occasional problems.

Here is some food for thought. Several employers will recognize HBCU's and will automatically assume a graduate is African-American. Sadly, I have been privy to situations where that assumption both hurts and helps a prospective job candidate get an interview.

I think you need to visit both types of colleges and meet as many students and professors as possible. Then go where you feel most comfortable. Every college will offer you diversity - religion, socioeconomic status, life history - even if it is not by race.

Good luck!

Answer 3

Look at the field you are trying to enter. Is that field made up of diverse populations? Then think about your background. Have you always gone to a (Predominately) one culture school?

Coming from an urban high school and going to a diverse University, I had culture shock. But I enjoyed learning about other cultures also. An HBCU will only give you a limited experience with different cultures.

I am not knocking HBCU's! Some are really good Universities! Before making a decision, make sure the school has your intended major, visit the school during the school year, chat with students on the campus, visit with the professors in your intended major.

I went to a very culturally diverse school in an urban area and I would not trade the experience for the world. When I entered the workforce, I was able to relate to my boss (She is chinese and I went to china for a class) and I was able to understand her personality. I also understand the work ethics of other cultures because my best friends are from Portugal, Sierra Leonne, Zimbabwe, and Italy. And when I plan to visit these countries, I will have a place to stay and a tour guide.

I HAVE TO COMMENT.....Many, many many HBCU's are private schools and are difficult to be admitted. The number one thing is to go to a great academically school. Diversity is just another determining factor.

Answer 4

I don't think you should base which college you want to go to be the racial status of the school. You should go to a school that offers classes that you are interested and find one that is right for you. An all black college may or may not suit you better than any other college so just try to find a good fit for you, race aside.

Answer 5

well its up to you... most only all black schools are held by a charity... but id prefer a diverse one becasue you get to live that whole college experioence and meeting all differnt kind of people...