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rinceton p Defining Diversity

Defining Diversity - Princeton University

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Page 1: Defining Diversity - Princeton University

rincetonpDefining Diversity

Page 2: Defining Diversity - Princeton University

ontents

A Distinctive Education 2

A Shared Experience 10

Getting Involved 18

Admission and Financial Aid 26

ThE PrIncETon ExPErIEncE ADmISSIon FAcTS For ThE clASS oF 2013(as of August 24, 2009)

number of applicants: 21,963 Applicants admitted: 10.1 percent class size: 1,301 Diversity in the class: African American: 7.3 percent Asian American: 17.7 percent hispanic: 6.8 percent native American: <1 percent multiracial: 5.1 percent International students: 10.5 percent Students receiving financial aid: 60 percent

•Academicexcellence:World-renownedfaculty;aninnovativeandwide-rangingcurriculum

•Qualityanddiversity:Studentsfrom50statesandmorethan 95 countries, contributing to the vibrant academic and social life of the campus

•Smallandresidential:Allstudentsliveintheresidentialcollegesfreshmanandsophomoreyear,enjoyinganetworkofacademicandsocialsupport;PhiladelphiaandNewYorkcity are easily accessible by train

•Affordability:Princeton’sneed-basedfinancialaidprogrammeetsthefinancialneedofeachstudentwithgrants,notloans that have to be repaid

c

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pTake a Closer Look at rinceton Princeton University is a community of learning that is enriched by the wide variety of experiences and perspectives of its students, faculty, and staff. Chartered in 1746, the University is committed to building a diverse campus community to ensure that students explore their interests, discover new academic and extracurricular pursuits, and learn from each other. More than ever, through initiatives such as its generous financial aid program, Princeton is making its distinctive education accessible to students from a broad range of cultural, ethnic, and economic backgrounds.

This publication offers many expressions of diversity at Princeton, while outlining the academic and social opportunities that help students get the most out of their undergraduate years at the University. Defining Diversity focuses on just 11 of the many exceptional students at Princeton, who come from a range of backgrounds. Their first-person accounts relate what it is like to express one’s identity while also being a member of a university community, and what it means to explore differences while sharing much in common.

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e

2 A Distinctive Education

A Distinctive ducation“The specific components of a Princeton education have evolved over time, but our central aim has remained the same: to instill in each graduate those qualities of mind and character necessary for good citizenship and wise leadership.”

Shirley M. Tilghman President

Princeton is renowned for its commitment to undergraduate teaching. Its 5,000 undergraduates have direct access to many of the best minds in the world, including Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, and MacArthur fellows.

Princeton students benefit from one-on-one advising with professors, particularly while doing independent work such as the senior thesis. Small class sizes and the availability of faculty encourage discussion and help students shape their Princeton education.

The learning experience is supported by a wealth of resources, such as an extensive library system, high-tech laboratories, and a range of programs offered by academic departments and campus centers.

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A Distinctive Education 3

Academic Choice The academic options at Princeton give students a great deal of flexibility in shaping their intellectual interests. Students work toward either the A.B. (bachelor of arts) degree in any of 29 departments in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences; or the B.S.E. (bachelor of science in engineering) degree in any of six departments. Students may also choose from among 42 interdepartmental programs, creating special combinations of academic interests. For example, a student might concentrate (“major”) in history while also earning a certificate in musical performance.

There are many features that define a Princeton education, but what is most distinctive is the emphasis on providing students with ample opportunity to explore and then deepen their academic interests. It is not uncommon to hear students

talk about “finding their passion” as a Princeton student—and this passion later informs choices about what to do after graduation.

Princeton’s commitment to its undergraduates and its many academic resources provide students with remarkable opportunities. Particularly rewarding learning experiences for Princeton students include:

•thefreshmanseminar,whichoffersfirst-yearstudentsanopportunity to work with a professor and a small group of classmates on a topic of particular interest;

•interdisciplinarywork,intheformofindividualstudyorinformalcourse curricula such as the Integrated Science sequence;

•internationalopportunitiesthroughstudy,service,andworkabroad; and

•independentwork,particularlyduringthejuniorandsenioryears,which enables students to pursue in-depth study of a special topic, with the guidance of a faculty adviser.

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4 A Distinctive Education

Departments and Certificate ProgramsA.B. DepartmentsAnthropologyArchitectureArt and ArchaeologyAstrophysical SciencesChemistryClassicsComparative LiteratureComputer ScienceEast Asian StudiesEcology and Evolutionary BiologyEconomicsEnglishFrench and ItalianGeosciencesGermanHistoryMathematicsMolecular BiologyMusicNear Eastern StudiesPhilosophyPhysicsPoliticsPsychologyReligionSlavic Languages and LiteraturesSociologySpanish and Portuguese

Languages and CulturesWoodrow Wilson School of Public

and International Affairs

B.S.E. DepartmentsChemical EngineeringCivil and Environmental

EngineeringComputer ScienceElectrical EngineeringMechanical and Aerospace

EngineeringOperations Research and

Financial Engineering

Certificate ProgramsAfrican American StudiesAfrican StudiesAmerican StudiesApplications of ComputingApplied and Computational

MathematicsArchitecture and EngineeringBiophysicsContemporary European Politics

and SocietyCreative Writing DanceEast Asian StudiesEngineering and Management

SystemsEngineering BiologyEngineering PhysicsEnvironmental StudiesEuropean Cultural StudiesFinanceGeological EngineeringGlobal Health and Health PolicyHellenic StudiesJudaic StudiesLanguage and CultureLatin American StudiesLatino StudiesLinguisticsMaterials Science and

EngineeringMedieval StudiesMusical PerformanceNear Eastern StudiesNeuroscienceQuantitative and Computational

BiologyRobotics and Intelligent SystemsRussian and Eurasian StudiesSouth Asian StudiesSustainable EnergyTeacher PreparationTheater Translation and Intercultural

CommunicationUrban StudiesVisual Arts Women and GenderWoodrow Wilson School of Public

and International Affairs

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oanghAcademic focus: Undecided, interested in the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs

Extracurricular activities: Ameriprise Financial, marketing intern; Sympoh break dancing crew; Tiger Call; TNTT Vietnamese youth group

Main reasons for choosing Princeton: “Princeton’s generous financial aid and strong undergraduate focus caught my attention. However, it was the Princeton Preview, a visit made possible through the University’s assistance, that sealed the deal. The campus was gorgeous, the town was charming, and the people were friendly. It felt like home.”

A Princeton highlight: “I had an incredible seminar on ‘Middle Eastern State and Society.’ The intimacy of the class, which is not uncommon for many offered at Princeton, allowed me to befriend my professor and classmates. By the end of term, we even had lunch together.”

Some thoughts for prospective students: “There’s every shade of personalities and interests at Princeton. My friends are break dancers, computer geniuses, martial artists, musicians, and people who simply leave me thinking, ‘Wow!’ The wonderful thing, however, is the opportunity and ease of getting to know people with both similar and different interests. I’m sure you will feel the same.”

Hoang TranClass of 2012

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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arieugeniam

Marieugenia CardenasClass of 2011Queens, New York

Academic focus: Spanish and Portuguese languages and cultures, Latin American studies, summer study in Toledo, Spain

Extracurricular activities: Ballet Folklórico de Princeton, business manager; Chicano Caucus, treasurer

Joining a community: “Ballet Folklórico is such a tight-knit family and I was really able to find the place where I belonged. I love being able to project my own culture and allowing other people to learn about it. Performing is so exciting, I love it!”

Living in a residential college: “I feel that I get a more intimate experience by being in Rocky [Rockefeller College] than if I had no residential college. People care about what I do, and the master of the college is always there to help and hear concerns, as well as the college deans. I’ve found that eating in the dining halls is a great opportunity to meet new people.”

Financial support: “For anyone doubting coming to Princeton because of financial reasons, do not doubt! Princeton’s financial aid is fantastic.”

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A Distinctive Education 7

Advising and Support With support from academic advisers, students build the knowledge and confidence to take on personally engaging intellectual challenges as they progress from classroom learning to independent research.

Among the academic and support resources for students are:

•faculty,staff,andpeer(student)advisersattheresidentialcolleges and in campus offices, who help students shape their academic programs beginning with freshman course selection;

•theMcGrawCenterforTeachingandLearning,whichoffersindividual tutoring, review sessions for specific courses, academic skills workshops, and other support;

•theWritingCenter,whichprovidesservicestostrengthenstudents’ writing skills;

•pre-professionaladvisers,forstudentswhoareinterestedinbusiness, law, medicine, or teaching;

•theOfficeofCareerServices,whichguidesstudentsregardingfull-time employment, internships, résumé preparation, and vocational testing; and

•theOfficeofDisabilityServices,whichcoordinatesservicesforqualified students with disabilities that allow them equal access to Princeton’s educational opportunities.

Academic and Cultural Resources Students have access to a broad array of opportunities that enrich their academic endeavors. In addition to lectures and conferences held throughout the year, the University’s vast research facilities and supporting offices give students the tools to pursue knowledge beyond the classroom.

The University Library Princeton’s library system contains more than 13 million holdings in 11 buildings across campus. Materials students can consult range from Egyptian papyri to geospatial information. The main and largest library is Firestone Library, which is a distinguished resource for the humanities and social sciences. The newest library is the Lewis Library, which opened in 2008 to integrate the University’s science holdings.

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For students interested in studies in subjects such as African American studies, Asian American studies, Judaic studies, Latino studies, Latin American studies, and LGBT studies, librarians and online research guides help provide direction to library holdings. The library system includes the largest collection of Islamic manuscripts in the Western hemisphere, a large collection of Native American materials, and public policy papers important to the U.S. civil rights movement. The East Asian Library collects materials in practically all subjects in Chinese, Japanese, and Korean. It also includes works in Western languages concerning East Asian languages and literature.

The University Art Museum Founded in 1882, the University Art Museum serves as an educational resource for the entire Princeton community. It features a distinguished collection of approximately 70,000 works ranging from ancient to contemporary art from around the world. Among the greatest strengths are the collections of Greek and Roman antiquities; Chinese art, with important holdings in bronzes and tomb figures, painting, and calligraphy; the art of the ancient Americas, with remarkable examples of the art of the Maya; and Western European and American art, with significant examples from the Renaissance through the 19th century.

Information Technology and Computing Students have access to a varied and powerful computing environment, with high-speed data connection in every dormitory room. Wireless service is also available across campus. Students may purchase a quality laptop computer through the Student Computer Initiative; computers are fully supported by Princeton’s Office of Information Technology. More than 250 computers located in clusters across campus are available for student use. The New Media Center—a cross-platform media lab—assists students with color printing, audiovisual capturing and editing, and Web development and design.

8 A Distinctive Education

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ordanAcademic focus: Mechanical and aerospace engineering

Extracurricular activities: Varsity Football, captain; University Cottage Club; working at Reunions

An academic highlight: “I made the Academic All-Ivy Team in the fall 2008, which honors five male and female athletes from our University for their academic standing. This was important to me, because it shows that I am excelling not only on the field but in the classroom as well.”

On making friends and finding support: “I’ve made many friends through my athletic team and eating club because those are the people I spend most of my time with. However, I still have been able to branch away from my affiliations and make friends through my major and to maintain the relationships I had with the roommates I was assigned to freshman year.”

Some thoughts on diversity for prospective students: “You’ll feel comfortable no matter who you like to hang out with. There are so many different types of people here that you’re bound to find a good group of friends that you’ll love to spend time with.”

Jordan CulbreathClass of 2010

Falls Church, Virginia

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eA Shared xperiencePrinceton is a residential community where students live in an environment that emphasizes shared experience and where students quickly can make friends. Princeton students are encouraged to organize programs and take a hands-on approach to shaping their University experience. The participation of all students in campus activities helps to project the multiple voices of the Princeton community. Princeton guarantees on-campus housing for students for all four years, and nearly all undergraduate students live on campus.

10 A Shared Experience

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Residential Life One of Princeton’s most distinctive characteristics is its closely knit residential community, which includes six residential colleges. The residential colleges house all freshmen and sophomores and a significant number of juniors and seniors as well as some graduate students. Through the residential colleges, students benefit from a supportive environment full of opportunities for personal growth. The residential experience is central to Princeton’s educational program, as some courses and much academic advising are based in the colleges.

Within each residential college, a dedicated group of students, faculty, and staff offers guidance and encouragement to students as they learn about their new surroundings. Staff and students at the residential colleges organize many out-of-class learning opportunities, such as meals with professors, foreign-language discussion tables, film series, topical speakers, and trips to cultural events, often in New York City. The colleges host dances, barbecues, movie nights, and sports competitions. Students also have access to ceramics, photography, dance, and theater spaces within the colleges.

An array of meal options and features such as marketplace dining, themed meals, and catering by chef managers are available in the residential colleges. Dining Services serves produce from New Jersey farms, seafood approved by the Sustainable Food Initiative, and fair-trade organic coffee. Kosher and halal meals are also available.

Freshman to Senior Year OptionsEntering freshmen are assigned randomly to one of the residential colleges. At the end of sophomore year, students may choose whether to continue to live in one of the residential colleges, or to remain affiliated with their colleges but make principal living and dining arrangements elsewhere on campus. These other options include dorms for juniors and seniors, eating clubs (for dining only), and cooperative residences, where students prepare meals in groups or individually. All juniors and seniors receive two extra meals per week in the residential colleges, regardless of where they take the rest of their meals.

Eating ClubsFor many juniors and seniors, Princeton’s 10 historic eating clubs offer a hub for dining and social life. Governed by student officers under the auspices of independent alumni boards, each coed eating club offers educational, public service, and athletic programs, a well as opportunities for leadership. Some clubs have a member selection process; others are sign-in and any student can join. Financial aid covers eating club dining costs.

Campus Centers Princeton’s campus centers are community hubs that feature social, cultural, and academic programs. Students are invited to take an active role in organizing programs, whether for the overall student body or for more targeted identity groups.

A Shared Experience 11

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abillnAcademic focus: Mathematics, Arabic, Princeton in Beijing language immersion program in China, summer study abroad in Jordan

Extracurricular activities: Misbah magazine, editor; Princeton University Language Project; Princeton Juggling Club; Princeton University Math Competition volunteer; knitting; running

On finding inspiration: “One of the things I really appreciate about Princeton is that I’m always around students who are themselves motivated, and that pushes me to see what more I can do. Also, my classes have tended to be relatively small, and it’s clear that my teachers care deeply about what they teach and have a concern that the students learn the material well.”

On making friends and finding support: “I’ve made many friends through my freshman RCA group and Outdoor Action, as well as different student organizations and clubs on campus. Also, friends invariably introduce me to other friends.”

On starting something new: “My involvement with Misbah, a new campus publication about Islamic history and culture, has been very significant for me. It was founded in the spring of 2008, and I became one of the editors for the magazine. I’ve been a part of the magazine from the beginning, and I’m excited to think of how it can continue to grow in the future.”

Nabill AbdurehmanClass of 2011Memphis, Tennessee

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hivanisAcademic focus: Philosophy, European cultural studies

Extracurricular activities: Anscombe Society, vice president; Princeton Pro-Life, vice president; Kalaa dance troupe; Religious Life Council; Great Books volunteer teacher; summer internship in Uganda

Main reason for choosing Princeton: “I wanted the feel of a small university with the resources of a major research institution.”

An academic highlight: “Princeton’s focus on undergraduate studies is wonderful. Whether it be sharing dinner with a professor, or interviewing another for a campus publication, the closeness of the students and the faculty is something I didn’t fully fathom before attending Princeton.”

Exchange of ideas: “I’m thankful for the opportunities for heated exchange of ideas outside of the classroom. Dinner conversations and extracurricular activities alike provide ample opportunities for respectful and intense dialogue on contested issues.”

On living in a residential college: “The residential colleges are nice as they provide an even smaller community within your Princeton class. The residential college pride and loyalty draw its students together over meals, intramural sports, and more.”

Shivani RadhakrishnanClass of 2011

Mt. Hope, New York

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14 A Shared Experience

Frist Campus CenterFrist Campus Center is a place where students, faculty and staff, alumni, and visitors meet and interact informally. Live music and dances, lectures, student performances, art shows, film series, and late-night events are all part of the busy life of the center, which is open 20 hours a day (24 hours a day during exam weeks). Many cultural, social, and educational events are organized at Frist by the student-run Center Stage Program Board. The campus center also offers various dining options.

Campus Club Campus Club, which opened in 2009 at the heart of campus, is a student-run social facility for undergraduate and graduate students. The club offers flexible spaces, inviting casual conversation and relaxation as well as opportunities for more formal gatherings, such as dinners, dances, forums, meetings, and lectures.

Davis International CenterLocated in Frist Campus Center, the Davis International Center provides a setting in which international students and visiting scholars from across the globe are introduced to American life and share their diverse perspectives with the Princeton community. The center sponsors many cultural and social events throughout the year, including the springtime International Festival.

Fields Center The Carl A. Fields Center for Equality and Cultural Understanding celebrates the experiences that each member of the University brings to the community and acts as a catalyst for exploring diversity-related issues. Through a combination of training, programs, service, and experiential learning, students develop skills related to understanding how to interact with, rather than dismiss or ignore, those who may be different. The center opened in its new building in 2009.

The Center for Jewish LifeThe Center for Jewish Life provides cultural, social, religious, and informal educational activities of interest to Jewish students and the overall University community. The center, which has its own building, is home base for several Jewish student groups and sponsors speakers, films, off-campus trips, and study breaks. It has a glatt kosher dining room that is open to all Princeton ID cardholders.

The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender CenterPrinceton’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Center, located in Frist Campus Center, provides programming, student advising, and training and consultation for the entire campus community. The LGBT Center offers weekly lunch discussions and film screenings; a home for LGBT discussion groups, including a group specifically for first-year students; and a safe and welcoming space to talk.

The Women’s Center The Women’s Center, which is housed in Frist Campus Center, is a resource for all members of the University community. Through educational, cultural, and social programs, it supports women at Princeton, encourages exploration of gender issues, assists student-initiated programs, and provides training in leadership.

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injuAcademic focus: Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs (WWS), Princeton in Beijing language immersion, WWS task force on crime and human rights in Santiago, Chile

Extracurricular activities: Sustained Dialogue, president; Outdoor Action, leader; Servant Team for Manna Christian Fellowship; Breakout civic action trips—one to New York on refugee and asylum issues—one to Arizona to study immigration issues; ballroom dancing; summer intern at a nongovernmental organization (NGO) in Mexico City; summer intern at an NGO in Seoul, South Korea

Main reasons for choosing Princeton: “I am interested in public policy, and the Woodrow Wilson School offered that to me. Also, Princeton’s financial aid program is one of the most generous anywhere. As a student interested in working in human rights after graduation (i.e., not expecting to make much money) the amount of financial aid offered was definitely a key factor in choosing Princeton.”

An academic highlight: “I adored my freshman writing seminar, ‘Refugees, Immigrants, and Social Justice,’ which allowed me to take a passion for humanitarianism and put it in the context of real work.”

Getting involved: “Sophomore year I wanted to try something new for fun, and so I created a small group of about 15 people—inviting friends, friends of friends, and sometimes complete strangers to join. My goal was to hold activities on Friday nights that were different, unique, and just a little bit weird. From Disney movie karaoke nights to three-legged races across campus, we were in our element.”

Jinju PottengerClass of 2010

Hellertown, Pennsylvania

study abroad in Santiago, Chile

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mmanuelleeAcademic focus: Molecular biology

Extracurricular activities: Princeton University Gospel Ensemble, president; Princeton Faith in Action; Princeton Admissions Links; Black Student Union Leadership and Mentoring Program; Black History Month Committee

A Princeton highlight: “I’ve had several small highlights, like the first time I did well on a chemistry exam, or realizing that I lucked out with an awesome roommate. One of my greatest moments was after becoming president of the Princeton University Gospel Ensemble and watching it all come together for the first time at our spring concert. Princeton is full of opportunities to step up and take the lead and watch all your hard work come to fruition, which is one of the best things about being here.”

On the social scene: “I think that the social scene at Princeton is, just like the education here, what you make of it. No matter what you like to do and who you like to be with, you will find plenty of people to hang out with and activities to do that fit your tastes.”

Some thoughts for prospective students: “No matter what you look for, you will find it here. You’ll realize that you get to learn from people from so many places in this country and around the world.”

Emmanuelle PierreClass of 2010Long Island, New York

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iguelmAcademic focus: Anthropology, African American studies

Extracurricular activities: Native Americans at Princeton, president; Outdoor Action leader; DJ at WPRB, the student radio station; Orange Key tour guide; Sustained Dialogue; Princeton University Rugby Football Club

A Princeton highlight: “A highlight of my Princeton career has been my participation in the All-Ivy Native Council. The council is comprised of Native students across the Ivy League and has been a great resource for networking and community building with students outside of the Princeton community.”

Combining academic and extracurricular interests: “In class and in discussion, I hope to provide an intellectual perspective that considers Indian life and culture. My internship with the Phoenix Area Indian Health Service, which I set up with guidance from the Pace Center, related to my major and overall academic experience at Princeton. It also allowed me to remain grounded in the larger Indian community and remember the generations that came before me and provided me with this educational opportunity.”

On leaving a legacy: “As president of Native Americans at Princeton, I hope to work with the University in helping to recruit Native applicants and to positively affect the visibility of the group on campus. My legacy will hopefully reflect the legacy of previous generations in helping to make a Princeton education more accessible and attractive to Native students.”

Miguel SansaloneClass of 2010

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

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i

18 Getting Involved

Getting nvolved For many freshmen, the Princeton experience starts with pre-orientation week, when students get to know some of their classmates during a wilderness trip through Outdoor Action or by working on social service projects through Community Action (the University pays program expenses for students on financial aid). From that time on, students find many ways to get involved in campus life and build an unforgettable time at Princeton. By interacting with their peers in class, various social settings, and clubs and organizations, students learn from a wealth of perspectives while building what are often lasting friendships.

Over time, special initiatives for individual students and student organizations have expanded and enhanced the range of activities available to all students. Often, such initiatives focus on multicultural themes. For example, the Sustained Dialogue program, which was founded at Princeton in 1999 and has since expanded to several campuses nationwide, addresses racial dynamics in the campus community through weekly discussions.

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Getting Involved 19

“Princeton is a fantastic place to be Jewish. Diverse and pluralistic, the Center for Jewish Life is a gathering place for Jewish students as well as students from all backgrounds. Whether celebrating Shabbat at festive Friday night dinners or engaging in dialogue with other religious and ethnic groups, Princeton students are curious to explore their own identities while learning from each other.”

Rabbi Julie Rothexecutive director, Center for Jewish Life/Hillel at Princeton University

Student Organizations The more than 300 student organizations make it easy for Princeton students to pursue existing interests and explore new ones. The organizations are created and run by students with support from the University. For a complete listing of organizations, see www.princeton.edu/odus/activities/organizations/directory. A sampling of groups with a multicultural focus follows.

Multicultural •AcciónLatina

•AKWAABA:AfricanStudentsAssociation

•ArabSocietyofPrinceton

•AsianAmericanStudentsAssociation

•AsianPacificAmericanHeritageCouncil

•BlackHistoryMonthPlanningCommittee

•BlackStudentUnion

•BulgarianUndergraduateSociety

•ChicanoCaucus

•ChineseStudentsAssociation

•CubanAmericanUndergraduateStudentAssociation

•Hillel(CenterforJewishLife)

•HongKongStudentsAssociation

•InternationalStudentsAssociationofPrinceton

•JapaneseStudentAssociation

•KoreanAmericanStudentsAssociation

•LatinAmericanStudiesStudentOrganization

•LatinoHeritageMonthCommittee

•MinorityBusinessAssociation

•NationalSocietyofBlackEngineers

•NativeAmericansatPrinceton

•Pehchaan(PakistanisatPrinceton)

•PersianSocietyofPrinceton

•PrincetonAssociationofBlackWomen

•PrincetonCaribbeanConnection

•SingaporeSociety

•SouthAsianStudentsAssociation

•TaiwaneseAmericanStudentsAssociation

•UkrainianAlliance

Religious Organizations The Princeton community is home to many religious denominations that welcome attendance and involvement by University students. The religious interests of members of the University community are supported by the Office of Religious Life, working together with religious leaders who serve students, faculty, and staff. The office’s Religious Life Council promotes interfaith understanding, as well as a weekly worship service in the African American tradition. In addition, numerous student-run religious organizations are active on campus, and many are supported through the Office of the Dean of Undergraduate Students. Through these diverse religious groups, which regularly work together on community projects, students find many ways to get involved on campus and beyond. Sacred places on campus include the University Chapel, the Muslim Prayer Room, and the Interfaith Meditation Room.

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20 Getting Involved

Campus Chaplaincies •AquinasInstitute(RomanCatholic)

•BaptistStudentFellowship

•ChabadChaplaincy

•HillelFoundation/CenterforJewishLife

•EpiscopalChurchatPrinceton

•HinduChaplaincy

•LutheranCampusMinistry

•MannaChristianFellowship

•MuslimChaplaincy

•OrthodoxChristianFellowship

•PrincetonEvangelicalFellowship

•PrincetonPresbyterians

•UnitarianUniversalistCampusCommunity

•WesleyFoundation(Methodist)

Serving the Community Strengthening the community at the University and beyond is a key part of the undergraduate experience for many students. Many programs, resources, and fellowship and internship opportunities support the work of student leaders. Options for student involvement include:

•theUndergraduateStudentGovernment,whichplaysasubstantial role within the University community through work on academic, social, and service issues;

•communityserviceactivitiessponsoredyear-roundbycampusorganizations such as the Pace Center, the Student Volunteers Council, and Community House;

•theCommunity-BasedLearningInitiative,whichenablesstudentsto engage with social issues from an academic perspective;

•internshipssuchasthosesupportedbythePrincetonInternshipsin Civic Service program, which funds more than 70 summer positions each year; and

•programsthatfocusonbuildingdialoguetohelpfosteranopenand welcoming campus environment by encouraging discussions about diversity among students, faculty, and staff.

Arts and MediaPrinceton students have many opportunities to deepen their involvement in the arts, whether through academic programs or student groups. Academic options include the Department of Music and the programs in musical performance, creative writing, dance, theater, and visual arts. Also, the Princeton Atelier Program, which was founded by Nobel Laureate Toni Morrison, provides an exceptional opportunity for students to collaborate with practicing artists on creative projects.

Outside of the classroom, students enjoy numerous outlets and resources for expressing their creativity through theater, music, dance, and the media. A sampling of those groups follows on page 22.

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dwardeAcademic focus: Electrical engineering, finance; Oxford-Princeton Exchange in Electrical Engineering

Extracurricular activities: The Language Trade, founder; ESL/Conversational Partners Program, tutor; Princeton University Table Tennis Club, manager; Let’s Get Ready! Mentoring Program, head coach

Main reason for choosing Princeton: “Princeton is THE place to study what you love, both inside and outside of the classroom. I don’t think there’s any other university where world-class education is intertwined so closely with such a rich extracurricular experience.”

On making connections: “Get involved in extracurriculars and don’t be afraid to try new things. Everyone at Princeton is in the same position when arriving on campus, so just be yourself. There are so many different types of people at Princeton that you’re bound to find someone who shares your passions.”

An international focus: “It’s hard to justify leaving a university like Princeton to study abroad, but when I heard about the Oxford-Princeton Exchange, I knew it was something I couldn’t pass up. I had a blast. I worked alongside a world-renowned professor to develop sustainable energy solutions.”

On the Princeton experience: “The best part about our university is that there is no such thing as the typical ‘Princeton Experience.’ What you can do here in four years is limited only by your imagination. If you try new classes, join new groups, and meet new people, you can’t go wrong.”

Edward WengClass of 2010

Shelby Township, Michigan

study abroad in Oxford, England

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22 Getting Involved

Theater •BlackArtsCompany:Drama

•PrincetonShakespeareCompany

•PrincetonSouthAsianTheatrics

•PrincetonTriangleClub

•PrincetonUniversityPlayers

•Quipfire!ImprovComedy

•Stand-UpComedy

•TheatreIntime

Music and Dance •Acappellagroups(severalstyles)

•BalletFolklóricodePrinceton

•BlackArtsCompany:Dance

•BodyHype

•ChapelChoir

•FlamencoPuro

•GospelEnsemble

•HighSteppers

•Jazzensembles

•Kalaa

•LegendDragonDanceCompany

•Naacho

•PrincetonBhangra

•PrincetonCapoeira

•PrincetonUniversityGleeClub

•PrincetonUniversityOperaTheatre

•PrincetonUniversityOrchestra

•RaksOdalisque

•SwingClub

•Sympoh

•TangoClub

•Triple8AsianAmericanDanceTroupe

•UniversityBand

Media •Bric-a-Brac (undergraduate yearbook)

•Business Today (nationally circulated magazine)

•The Daily Princetonian (newspaper)

•Green Light (cultural magazine)

•Misbah (Muslim issues magazine)

•The Nassau Literary Review

•The Nassau Weekly (humor magazine)

•The Princeton Tiger (humor magazine)

•PRISM (diversity/international magazine)

•Tigervision(filmproduction)

•WPRB(radiostation)

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Getting Involved 23

Athletics Princeton has varsity, club, and intramural sports, along with facilities for fitness and informal recreation. Each year more than 1,000 students participate in intercollegiate varsity sports at the University, an NCAA Division I school with 38 varsity sports. In any given year, more than half of Princeton’s varsity athletic teams compete in national championships. Princeton teams and individuals have won national titles in recent years in sports such as lacrosse, rowing, fencing, track and field, and squash. Women’s varsity sports include basketball, crew, cross country, diving, fencing, field hockey, golf, ice hockey, lacrosse, soccer, softball, squash, swimming, tennis, track and field, volleyball, and water polo. Men compete in baseball, basketball, crew, cross country, diving, fencing, football, golf, ice hockey, lacrosse, soccer, sprint football, squash, swimming, tennis, track and field, volleyball, water polo, and wrestling.

Alumni AssociationsAnnual reunions draw about 20,000 alumni back to campus in late May, and alumni associations extend the sense of community beyond a student’s four years at the University. The Alumni Association’s Education Program offers learning opportunities online, on campus, and abroad, and regional groups host networking, social, and service outings. In addition, several alumni groups, such as those for alumni of color and LGBT alumni, provide extended networking, mentoring, and support for their members. These include:

•theAssociationofBlackPrincetonAlumni

•theAsianAmericanAlumniAssociationofPrinceton

•theAssociationofLatinoPrincetonAlumni

•theFundforReunion(LGBT)

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abrielgAcademic interests: Architecture, urban studies

Extracurricular activities: Ballet Folklórico de Princeton, historian and artistic director; Wilson College Council, advertising chair and upperclass student chair; LGBT Pride Alliance, secretary and publicity chair; Princeton Ballroom Dance, social chair; Chicano Caucus; Orange Key tour guide

Main reasons for choosing Princeton: “Princeton offered me an amazing financial aid package that made it possible for me (part of a family of seven) to attend a university worry-free and debt-free. After visiting the campus I just knew that this would be the place for me. The environment, the academics, the renowned faculty, the generous financial aid program, and the prospect of a bright future only made the decision that much easier.”

Some thoughts for prospective students: “The diversity at Princeton reaches far beyond that of race and ethnicity and extends to a rich diversity of sexual orientation and varied interests. There are so many clubs and groups on campus that cater to diverse identities, talents, and curiosities.”

Getting the most out of your Princeton experience: “Make your Princeton experience your own. Be bold! Get out there and try new things, expand your horizons, test your strengths, and challenge your weaknesses. This is a time to really begin to figure out just who you are, what you want, and where you are going.”

Gabriel RodriguezClass of 2010Glendale, California

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gathaaAcademic focus: Ecology and evolutionary biology

Extracurricular activities: Track and field, co-captain; sexual health adviser, programming chair; residential college adviser, Butler College; Alcohol Coalition Committee, co-chair; University Health Services Health Promotion and Wellness assistant; Resources for the Future intern, Washington, D.C.

Main reasons for choosing Princeton: “In my college search I was looking primarily at small liberal arts colleges. However, when I visited Princeton it did not feel as big as I thought it would. I got the sense that I would get the same kind of attention I would at a small liberal arts college, but would have the resources of a large research institution. In addition, Princeton offered me a very good financial aid package, making it one of my most affordable options.”

Academic highlights: “Writing my two junior papers and senior thesis, I got to research public health topics that really interested me. Also, working closely with my advisers has been a valuable experience.”

Being part of a team: “Running as a member of the distance medley relay that placed eighth at nationals during the 2007 indoor track season was a Princeton highlight. It was an amazing experience to share with my three other teammates and coaches!”

Agatha OfferjebeClass of 2009

San Jose, California

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26 Admission and Financial Aid

Admission and Financial id“We want to reach out to students from every background. What we value are their personal qualities, achievements, and intellectual successes.”

Janet Lavin Rapelye Dean of admission

Princeton enrolls a freshman class of about 1,300 students each year. Princeton students come from a wide range of ethnic, economic, and religious backgrounds to build a diverse student body that helps to shape the University community in new ways. The admission staff considers each application individually, evaluating personal as well as intellectual qualities. All qualified students—regardless of financial circumstances—are encouraged to apply for admission to Princeton.

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Admission and Financial Aid 27

Financial AidPrinceton’s no-loan financial aid program assists all qualified applicants with generous need-based grants, making the University affordable to low- and middle-income families. More than half of Princeton’s student body receives aid each year. Committed to ensuring economic diversity within the student body, Princeton provides grants—which are like scholarships and do not have to be repaid—and campus jobs to meet the full demonstrated need for all students offered admission. For more information about financial aid, visit www.princeton.edu/aid.

AdmissionIn recent years, Princeton has offered admission to about 10 percent of those who apply. Application materials for admission and financial aid are updated annually and are available in the summer before a student’s senior year in high school. For more information about Princeton’s admission process, visit www.princeton.edu/admission.

FINANCIAL AID ESTIMATOR

Students can estimate their eligibility for a specific amount of financial aid by using the confidential financial aid estimator at www.princeton.edu/aid.

FAMILY INCOME AVERAGE GRANT*WHAT IT COVERS

tuition=$35,340•room+board=$11,680

$0–60,000 $47,350 Fulltuition,room+board

$60,000–80,000 $43,550 Fulltuition,70%ofroom+board

$80,000–100,000 $41,450 Fulltuition,52%ofroom+board

$100,000–120,000 $36,450 Fulltuition,10%ofroom+board

$120,000–140,000 $33,700 95% of tuition

$140,000–160,000 $29,000 82% of tuition

$160,000–180,000 $25,950 73% of tuition

$180,000–200,000 $20,500 58% of tuition

$200,000 and abovemost who qualify

have 2 children in college

$17,000 48% of tuition

*A grant does not have to be repaid. Sometimes grants are referred to as “scholarships” or “gift aid.”

FINANCIAL AID FOR THE CLASS OF 2013

Of those who applied for aid: 100% qualify 98% qualify 48% qualify

Princeton may adjust your grant if your assets (other than the family home and retirement) are greater than $100,000.

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28 Admission and Financial Aid

Visit PrincetonStudents are encouraged to visit the Princeton campus and attend information sessions organized by the admission staff. A good way to start exploring the University is through an Orange Key Tour, conducted year-round by student guides. For more information about visiting Princeton, please go to www.princeton.edu/admission; or contact the Admission Office at 609-258-3060.

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nonDIScrImInATIon STATEmEnT IncompliancewithTitleIXoftheEducationAmendmentsof1972,Section504oftheRehabilitationActof1973,andotherfederal,state,andlocallaws,PrincetonUniversitydoesnotdiscriminateonthebasisofage,race,color,sex,sexualorientation,genderidentity,religion,nationalorethnicorigin,disability,orstatusasadisabledorVietnam-eraveteranin any phase of its employment process, in any phase of its admission or financial aid programs, or other aspects of its educational programs or activities. The vice provost for institutional equity and diversity is the individual designated by theUniversitytocoordinateitseffortstocomplywithTitleIX,Section504andotherequalopportunityandaffirmativeactionregulationsandlaws.QuestionsorconcernsregardingTitleIX,Section504orotheraspectsofPrinceton’sequalopportunity or affirmative action programs should be directed to the office of the Vice Provost for Institutional Equity and Diversity,PrincetonUniversity,205NassauHall,Princeton,NJ08544or(609)258-6110.

crEDITS PublicationcoordinatedbytheOfficeofCommunications,22ChambersStreet,Suite201,Princeton,NJ08542;editedbyKarinDienstandUshmaPatel,OfficeofCommunications,andMichelleBussenius,AdmissionOffice;designedbyLaurelMastenCantor,MeganPeterson,andMaggieWestergaard;photographybyDeniseApplewhiteandBrianWilson;additionalphotographsbyGabrielCooney,BentleyDrezner,andcourtesy of individual Princeton students

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Copyright©2009bytheTrusteesofPrincetonUniversity

In the Nation’s Service and in the Service of All Nations

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Admission office P.O.Box430Princeton,NJ08542-0430

www.princeton.edu/admission