Being recognized for having diversity has become a key factor in setting a university a part from others. Seeing more than one race on college flyers and high rates of economic and racial diversity is great. Students are now in environments where they can learn as well as expand their knowledge of other cultures; however, are all campuses really as diverse as their rates claim.

Over the past few years, there has been an increase in racial problems within the student communities of numerous schools. Despite universities being more diverse than ever, racism is still present. Whether it's frat brothers chanting racial slurs, people throwing ghetto or hood themed parties, or even people in blackface... it is here.

Racial incidents are nothing new but social media is.

Of course, racial incidents are nothing new because racism is nothing new. Unfortunately, unless this behavior is shared on social media via Facebook, Twitter, etc. many of these acts go unnoticed. One cannot expect racism to completely disappear overnight but is brushing these situations under a carpet or excusing the students okay?

Who is at fault? Please do not point fingers!

Ultimately no specific person can be pinpointed for racism because it involves multiple groups of people. Discrimination and prejudice of how several groups view one another derive from various sources such as family, school, personal experiences, etc. Should people blame admissions? Should the students be pardoned for their actions? Should the students be allowed to speak out or should they remain silent?

Solutions

Is there a perfect solution? What can admissions and educators do?

There is no perfect solution to this problem because this is up to the school. Admissions staff have to make tough choices; therefore, a key factor in solving this is empowering the student communities.

How can student's change the problem for the better?

Students can choose not to be ignorant about other cultures on campus. More events can be held to recognize the different ethnicities on campus. Hopefully, students being more aware of one another will encourage the administration to incorporate more diverse events for the school.

This is just the beginning. Racism within the university should not remain a discussion. Students and the leaders of the school need to take initiative and empower one another. As a result of the student body unifying the admissions team will follow accordingly in order to prevent future acts of racism to go unrecognized.