University of Missouri is one of many colleges that happen to have a larger population of Caucasian individuals than minority individuals. Although this fact is known, it has not presented itself as an issue until the recent incident that has taken place on the Missouri University’s campus. University system President, Timothy Wolfe, resigned from his position on Nov. 9, after months of protests towards his failure to address campus racism.

Seeing that this is the time of the year in which students begin the college admission process, this recent incident may raise questions. What role does ethnicity play in the college acceptance process? How are minorities treated on various college campuses? Do minorities attending colleges with a higher population of Caucasian students feel apart? If not, does this affect them academically?

Although it may not seem like a logical explanation, according to the Washington Post, researcher, Sylvia Hurtado explained, “Students who reported negative or hostile encounters with members of other racial groups scored lower on the majority of outcomes.”

Additionally, African American students seem to be the individuals who are suffering from this issue the most; this affecting their decision to apply to a certain college, and or apply for college at all. As if it is not enough for applicants to have the fear of rejection, but to add on the fear of social isolation will possibly do nothing but continue to lower the rate of African American college graduates.

Leah Kendra Cox, doctor of philosophy stated,”In unhealthy climates, students — both majority and minority — are less likely to thrive academically or socially.”

The issue has not only been spread through the local newspapers, but social media as well. Students, teachers, and observers since the protest have been rapidly posting their opinions and personal experiences relating to the matter by using the hashtag “#BlackOnCampus”. This creating a platform for them to openly express their feelings and concerns as well as bringing awareness to the rest of the world.

The fact that my ethnic community still suffers today with the ignorance that is racism saddens me. However, the possibility of it affecting my education angers me. Whether it is a grudge or personal belief that encourages individuals to treat or feel that others should be treated with such cruelty is okay, I believe it must stop before the repetition of history begins.