University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Top Questions

I don't think any student could feel out of place at UNC. There are so many types of organizations and people in general that everyone is almost sure to find their niche.

UNC is a very diverse group.

Most students are from within NC. If they're not, then they are SMART.

Chapel Hill is known for being a super-liberal town, however as a transplant conservative I don't feel like my views are looked down upon or stifled as a result of being in the minority. The UNC community is very tolerant when it comes to gay/lesbian and/or racial issues. Students are goal oriented and talk about how much they want to make/what they want to do after graduation, however most cringe at the thought of graduating because this means they will have to leave UNC. There is a strong Greek presence which is sort of separated from the rest of the students- they have their own bars, hang out with each other, etc. But for the most part, although it is a large and very diverse school it is a close community and everyone is tolerant of each other.

Students are extremely politically active. Students are predominantly left, but there are some right wing people here. We're really into environmental protection so we're all about saving energy, recycling, and anything involving tree happiness! I came here as an uphappy, devout Christian, conservative, in the "closet", anti-choice student, and I'm leaving as an openly LGBT, left wing, Atheist, working on issues involving Women of Color and LGBTQ advocacy. Basically, here at UNC I talked about how I really felt, read books, and realized who I was. I have never felt more like myself than before. I have friends who support me and love me for who I am here rather than hiding myself like I did in high school. I also question authority, analyze, and think for myself more than I ever have.

I think anyone can find a niche here, but I've had some pretty negative experiences as a minority. A roommate tried to attack me for walking in on my boyfriend and I making out (fully clothed, mind you). I've been sexually harassed and called a "fag" or "queer" numerous times. Racism is also subtly rampant on campus as students tend to self segregate. It's probably better than any other southern university, but we still have a long, long way to go.

I don't think many students feel out of place here because there is such diversity that you can always find a group you fit in with. However, I do think some students feel more social pressure to conform than others. For instance, I do not like it that the University allows evangelical preachers on campus who are not associated with the University and who represent a fringe of religious beliefs. These preachers stand right outside of our main campus library/dining hall/bus stop/student stores in an area known as the pit. They hold up large signs and tell gays, jews, women, etc. that they are evil horrible sinful people and will be going to hell. I just think this isn't well justified under "free speech" protection. If you're a fellow student and you want to go do that, fine, but otherwise it should stop.

My experiences have been diverse with racial groups. I'm part of a mainly white fraternity, but I also live with Asian roommates. I also like doing music with my black friends who are into hiphop and R&B. There is something for everyone so only an introvert would feel out of place at UNC. A lot of students wear different types of clothing to class. I can't put my finger on one typical style.

I am an indian. Lots of different races at UNC. Hispanic Yes Round, Square, Yellow, and White From North Carolina - Chapel Hill and Charlotte Rich Yes Don't Know Yes

UNC is a big and diverse school. It was a bit "whiter" than I had hoped, but I did meet people from many different backgrounds. In the undergraduate school, the vast majority of the students are from North Carolina (as guaranteed by law).