Boston College Class of 2028 Admissions Data Reflects Diversity Trends

Boston College Class of 2028: A Reflection of National Trends in Higher Education

Boston College has recently unveiled the composition of its Class of 2028, revealing a nuanced landscape of enrollment that reflects broader national trends in higher education. The data indicates a mixed enrollment of traditionally underrepresented students, with a slight decrease in Black students and an increase in Hispanic and Asian American students. According to preliminary data released by the Office of Undergraduate Admission in September 2024, the percentage of Black students in the first-year class fell from 7% to 6%, while Hispanic students rose from 13% to 14.4%, and Asian American enrollment increased from 14.6% to 16.2%. These shifts align with trends observed at many selective colleges following the 2023 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that prohibited the consideration of race in college admissions.

The Class of 2028 is characterized by its academic strength, with 90% of students ranking in the top 10% of their high school classes and average SAT/ACT scores of 1484 and 34, respectively. Boston College admitted only 15.9% of its 35,487 applicants, yielding a total of 43%, indicating the university’s appeal among high-achieving students. The university’s ability to maintain a diverse class is attributed to its longstanding relationships with community organizations and urban schools, as well as its popularity among QuestBridge Scholars, a group of high-achieving, low-income students. Boston College ranked second nationally in enrolling QuestBridge College Match students.

Additionally, the Class of 2028 includes 14% first-generation college students, a 23% increase from the previous year, and 18.8% Pell-eligible students, marking a 50% rise and reflecting the university’s commitment to meeting the full demonstrated financial need of all accepted students. Boston College plans to award $177 million in need-based financial aid this year, with over 66% of its students receiving financial assistance. Provost and Dean of Faculties David Quigley emphasized the university’s commitment to diversity, stating, “Given our distinctive mission and foundational values as a Jesuit, Catholic university, our commitment to enrolling a diverse class of students is unwavering.” Dean of Undergraduate Admission and Financial Aid Grant Gosselin noted that the admissions office adapted to the Supreme Court ruling by focusing on race-neutral factors while enhancing socioeconomic representation among the student body.

The Class of 2028 comprises 2,394 first-year students from 48 states and 55 countries, with 8% being international students. Gosselin highlighted that Boston College’s reputation for academic excellence and its commitment to need-blind admissions have contributed to the broad representation within the class. The university’s ongoing $3 billion Soaring Higher campaign aims to enhance need-based financial aid, with a goal of raising $1.1 billion for this initiative. The results from the Class of 2028 underscore the increasing need for investment in financial aid to support students from diverse backgrounds.

The Impact of the 2023 U.S. Supreme Court Ruling on College Admissions Policies

The landscape of college admissions in the United States has been significantly altered by the 2023 U.S. Supreme Court ruling in the case of Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. v. President and Fellows of Harvard College. This landmark decision effectively struck down race-based affirmative action in college admissions, compelling universities to reevaluate their admissions practices and raising questions about the future of diversity initiatives in higher education.

The case was initiated by Students for Fair Admissions (SFFA), a non-profit organization founded by conservative activist Edward Blum, which argued that Harvard University and the University of North Carolina (UNC) discriminated against Asian American applicants in their admissions processes. The Supreme Court’s ruling overturned 45 years of precedent that allowed race to be considered as one factor among many in admissions decisions, emphasizing that such practices violate the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment and Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Chief Justice John Roberts, in the majority opinion, outlined three main reasons for the ruling: the lack of coherent objectives justifying the use of race, the negative manner in which race was used in admissions decisions, and the absence of meaningful endpoints for the policies. The Court’s decision mandates that universities cease using race as a factor in admissions, compelling them to explore alternative methods to achieve diversity. For instance, Harvard has revised its application process to include short-answer questions focused on how applicants will contribute to a diverse student body, moving away from long-form essays that allowed for broader discussions.

While the ruling prohibits the consideration of race in admissions decisions, it does allow applicants to discuss how their experiences with race have shaped their lives. This nuance means that students can still mention race in their applications without fear of negative repercussions, potentially enhancing their chances of admission.

The implications of the SFFA ruling extend beyond college admissions. Although the decision directly pertains to higher education, it raises questions about the legality of similar race-based policies in employment and other sectors. Legal experts suggest that the ruling could embolden challenges to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs across various industries, as litigants may seek to apply the Court’s reasoning to other contexts.

In the wake of the ruling, universities are encouraged to adopt practices that promote diversity without violating the new legal standards. Strategies may include increasing resources for community college transfers, implementing test-optional policies, and actively recruiting from underrepresented high schools. The Court’s decision has also prompted discussions about the future of affirmative action in military academies, as SFFA has filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Military Academy at West Point regarding its admissions practices.

As students prepare for the upcoming admissions cycle, they are advised to stay informed about changes in application requirements and to reach out to admissions offices for clarification. The ruling has created a climate of uncertainty, particularly for historically underrepresented students who may feel anxious about how these changes will affect their college prospects.

Trends in Enrollment of Underrepresented Students in Higher Education Institutions

The enrollment of underrepresented students in higher education institutions has been a focal point of discussion, particularly in light of the recent Supreme Court ruling. A recent study by Common App revealed that the Supreme Court’s decision to strike down affirmative action has not significantly altered applicant behavior in the 2023-24 college admissions cycle. Despite the ruling being a pivotal moment in higher education, the volume of applications from various racial groups remained consistent with previous years. For instance, applications from Latinx students increased by 10%, while Black students submitted 9% more applications compared to the previous year. White and Asian students saw a modest increase of 1% each, which aligns with ongoing trends rather than a direct response to the ruling.

The study indicates that the number of applicants from underrepresented minority groups applying to highly selective institutions—defined as those with an acceptance rate of 25% or less—did not experience significant changes. The percentage of students from underrepresented minority groups applying to these selective institutions slightly declined, consistent with trends observed since 2020.

Brian Kim, Common App’s director of data science and research, noted that the findings showed no meaningful changes in applicant behavior, suggesting that the fluctuations observed could be attributed to normal variations rather than the Supreme Court’s decision. The Common App has been collecting demographic data from applicants for years, and this data was utilized to analyze trends before and after the affirmative action ruling.

Interestingly, the report contrasts with earlier findings from January, which indicated a 12% increase in applications from underrepresented minority students. However, the final data showed a 9% increase, which Kim attributed to demographic shifts rather than the Supreme Court’s ruling.

The muted response to the affirmative action decision is surprising, especially when compared to the significant changes in applicant behavior following the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to many colleges adopting test-optional policies. This previous shift saw underrepresented minorities applying at much higher rates. In contrast, the current study’s findings suggest that the impact of the affirmative action ruling has been less pronounced than anticipated.

Zachary Bleemer, an economics professor at Princeton University, highlighted that the national trends observed in the Common App findings differ from past experiences in states that have previously banned affirmative action. For example, after California’s Proposition 209 was enacted in 1996, there was a notable decline in minority applicants to the University of California’s most selective campuses. Bleemer speculated that the current nationwide ban on affirmative action might lead to similar outcomes in the future, particularly for highly selective public universities in states that have not yet implemented such bans.

As the higher education community awaits the demographic data for the incoming class of 2028, the Common App report suggests that fears regarding the negative impact of the Supreme Court’s decision on college access may be overstated. Common App CEO Jenny Rickard expressed optimism that underrepresented students did not appear to be deterred from applying.

However, Bleemer cautioned against drawing conclusions about enrollment trends based solely on application data, as it does not directly correlate with enrollment outcomes. He noted that the challenges posed by the new Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) could also significantly affect underrepresented minority enrollments, complicating the analysis of the impact of the affirmative action ruling.

The Role of Financial Aid in Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in Universities

Financial aid plays a crucial role in promoting diversity and inclusion in higher education institutions. On October 17, 2023, EdTrust released a report emphasizing the critical need for colleges and universities to foster positive racial climates for students of color. The report defines ‘campus racial climate’ as the prevailing attitudes, behaviors, and practices of faculty and students towards individuals based on their race or ethnicity. It highlights that while gaining admission to college is a significant achievement, the experiences of students of color on campus can be markedly different from their white peers due to negative attitudes and behaviors they encounter.

The report underscores that the long-term effects of these experiences can severely impact the academic and social well-being of students of color, affecting their college access and success. Continuous, tailored support for these students has been shown to lead to better outcomes, including increased participation, persistence, and graduation rates. In light of recent Supreme Court rulings limiting affirmative action, the report argues for enhanced efforts to support diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives on campuses rather than a reduction in such efforts.

Ivory Toldson, Director of Education Innovation and Research at Howard University, stresses the importance of DEI in higher education, urging leaders to take actionable steps to improve campus climates for all students. The report is based on interviews conducted with 32 Black, Latino, and Asian American students at predominantly white institutions (PWIs) across 15 states from September 2022 to May 2023. The findings reveal several common themes, including:

1. Underrepresentation of Students of Color: Many students reported being the only person of their race in classes, highlighting a lack of diversity among both students and faculty. For instance, one student noted that their university’s population was 62% white and only 4% Black, despite ongoing campaigns for increased representation.

2. Limited Support for Students of Color: Students expressed frustration over the lack of institutional support, with some recounting experiences where their contributions to discussions about race were dismissed by faculty.

3. Lack of Knowledge About Reporting Procedures: Many students were unaware of how to report incidents of racial discrimination, leading to a sense of helplessness regarding their experiences.

4. Insufficient Mental Health Resources: Students of color often found that counseling services lacked culturally competent staff, which hindered their ability to receive appropriate support.

The report also includes recommendations for improving campus racial climates, such as increasing the percentage of faculty of color, conducting regular campus climate assessments, and creating more efficient reporting systems for racial incidents. It emphasizes the need for colleges to actively engage in discussions about race and to provide resources that support the unique experiences of students of color.

Furthermore, the report outlines a framework developed by Dr. Sylvia Hurtado and colleagues, which measures campus racial climate across four dimensions: historical legacy of inclusion/exclusion, structural diversity, psychological climate, and faculty/student social behavior. This framework serves as a guide for institutions to assess and improve their racial climates.

At the state and federal levels, the report calls for policies that mandate the inclusion of campus climate metrics in funding measures, require audits of student complaint processes, and promote the establishment of cultural centers and support systems for students of color. It advocates for increased funding for programs that prepare students of color for college and enhance faculty diversity.

The Significance of First-Generation College Students in Shaping the Future of Higher Education

First-generation college students play a pivotal role in shaping the future of higher education. On September 18, 2024, New Jersey City University (NJCU) commenced its celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the rich history, culture, and contributions of the Hispanic community. As the oldest minority and Hispanic-serving public university in New Jersey, NJCU takes pride in its role within the most diverse city in the nation. This year’s national theme, “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together,” resonates deeply with the university’s mission to empower diversity and foster collaboration among its students.

The university’s interim president, Andrés Acebo, highlighted the significant impact of Hispanic and Latinx communities in various sectors, including education, leadership, arts, sciences, and civic engagement. He noted that these communities have been at the forefront of social and cultural advancements, contributing to the nation’s prosperity and progress. The economic influence of the Hispanic community is substantial, with Hispanic-owned businesses growing by over 34% in the past decade, particularly in technology, clean energy, and healthcare.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the Latino population in the United States exceeds 62 million, making up nearly 19% of the total population and representing the largest racial or ethnic group in the country. The Latino GDP is estimated at $3.2 trillion, positioning it as the fifth largest economy globally if considered independently. Furthermore, the political influence of Latinos is on the rise, with the 118th Congress featuring the largest class of Latino representatives to date. The Latino electorate is also growing rapidly, with 36.2 million voters participating in the last election.

At NJCU, the undergraduate population is over 50% Latinx, with many students being first-generation college attendees. This demographic reality underscores the university’s commitment to educating and shaping the future of the nation. Throughout Hispanic Heritage Month, which concludes on October 15, NJCU will host a series of events aimed at honoring the contributions of the Hispanic community. These events include engaging panel discussions and cultural celebrations, reflecting the strength and vision of Hispanic pioneers who are shaping the future.

President Acebo encouraged all members of the NJCU community to participate in the planned activities, emphasizing the importance of building a university environment where every culture and contribution is celebrated. He expressed gratitude to those who attended the annual opening ceremonies, which included a campus flag recognition led by the Council on Hispanic Affairs (CHA).

The Effectiveness of Community Partnerships in Increasing College Access for Low-Income Students

Community partnerships have proven to be effective in increasing college access for low-income students. On September 4, 2024, the California State University (CSU) Chancellor’s Office announced the positive impact of the #CaliforniansForAll College Corps program, which partners with California Volunteers to provide students with valuable work experience while contributing to their communities. This initiative, launched in 2022, allows CSU students, along with those from the University of California and California Community Colleges, to engage in community service while earning up to $10,000 for completing 450 hours of service during the academic year.

The College Corps program is part of the larger California Service Corps, which comprises 10,000 members. It aims to address pressing issues in California, such as tutoring low-income students, combating food insecurity, and tackling climate change. The program not only enhances students’ leadership and public speaking skills but also prepares them for future careers by applying classroom knowledge in real-world settings.

Over the past two academic years, around 1,200 CSU students have been selected as College Corps fellows, with a significant portion being first-generation college students and Pell Grant recipients. For the 2024-25 academic year, up to 1,461 CSU students are expected to participate, making up nearly half of the 3,000 fellows across the state. CSU Chancellor Mildred García emphasized the program’s role in creating opportunities for diverse students to engage in meaningful service while developing job-ready skills.

The program is overseen by CSU Offices of Service Learning and Community Engagement, which collaborate with various campus partners, including financial aid offices and faculty members. It is particularly beneficial for AB 540-eligible students, who often lack access to traditional financial aid. The CSU Dream Center assists undocumented students in connecting with scholarship opportunities like College Corps.

Wendi Lizola, a Sacramento State College Corps alumna, shared her positive experience, stating that the program allowed her to cover educational expenses while gaining work experience and making a community impact. The College Corps program serves as both a scholarship and an internship, enabling students to explore public service career opportunities regardless of their majors.

A survey conducted by WestEd revealed that over 90% of participants felt the program helped them gain skills and experience relevant to their career goals, while more than 75% reported improved leadership skills. Students from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, for instance, engaged in sustainable farming practices and educational outreach at City Farm SLO, directly applying their learning to benefit local schools and food banks.

Shayna Briseno-Brooks, a political science major at Cal State Long Beach, highlighted her experience with the Long Beach Center for Economic Inclusion, where she worked to address food insecurity. She noted that the program equipped her with public speaking and leadership skills, essential for her aspiration to attend law school and serve her community.

The College Corps program exemplifies CSU’s commitment to community engagement and workforce development, fostering a new generation of civic-minded leaders. As students continue to make significant contributions to their communities, the program not only supports their educational journeys but also strengthens the fabric of California society.

Conclusion

The composition of Boston College’s Class of 2028 serves as a microcosm of the evolving landscape of higher education in the United States. The interplay of demographic shifts, the impact of the Supreme Court ruling on affirmative action, and the ongoing efforts to promote diversity and inclusion through financial aid and community partnerships highlight the complexities of college admissions and enrollment. As institutions navigate these challenges, the commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment remains paramount. The experiences of first-generation college students, the effectiveness of community partnerships, and the role of financial aid are all critical components in shaping the future of higher education, ensuring that it remains accessible and equitable for all students.

References

• Boston College: “Boston College Class of 2028 Reflects National Trends in Higher Education” link
• Stanford Law School: “Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard: Implications of the Supreme Court Ruling” link
• Scientific Reports: “Disparities in College Admissions for Asian American Applicants: A Study of Ivy-11 Schools” link
• Inside Higher Ed: “Applicant Behavior Unchanged Following Affirmative Action Ruling” link
• Penn State University: “Penn State Reports Strong Enrollment Figures for Fall 2023” link
• EdTrust: “Creating Positive College Campus Racial Climates for Students of Color” link
• Worcester Polytechnic Institute (2024 USNews Ranking: 82) : “Worcester Polytechnic Institute Celebrates Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Initiatives” link
• New Jersey City University: “New Jersey City University Celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month” link
• Arizona State University: “Couple Inspire Generational Achievement Through Education” link
• Newswise: “College Corps Partnership Benefits CSU Students and Local Communities” link
• EdTrust: “Promoting Racial Equity Through Federal-State College Affordability Partnerships” link