The Multicultural Recruitment Committee (MRC) is a student-run group who works with the Office of Undergraduate Admissions in recruiting students from under-represented populations. The MRC was formed in the 1960s by Columbia undergraduates to create a number of programs that addressed diversity and multiculturalism.  Today, members of the MRC assist the admissions staff to identify, recruit and yield students from historically underrepresented groups (students of color, first-generation college students, families from high need backgrounds). Six undergraduate student interns serve on the MRC and provide a bridge between the Office of Undergraduate Admissions and the student body. They work closely with current undergraduates on outreach efforts and provide a vital role in the recruitment mission.

Welcome

When we arrived at Columbia, we found infinite resources and incredible support networks to help students get involved and feel part of the Columbia family. The Core Curriculum classes kept us all connected in the classroom and created academic camaraderie amongst all undergraduates. The first year design course empowers civic-minded engineers to understand the vital impact their work will have on the world. The tight-knit communities of the various student organizations also provided a friendly environment that really made us feel at home. From hip-hop dance shows to a capella performances, Sunday evening club meetings, leadership training programs, lectures, receptions and dinners, there are always new ways to meet and get to know your classmates.

It was the variety of interests amongst the students here that was most appealing to all of us. Whether you're interested in literature or engineering, economics or biology, history or math, you will find a community of scholars at Columbia. Lastly, it's great to live New York City as a student; you're constantly enhancing your Columbia experience with the resources of New York City, whether it's a visit to the Metropolitan Museum of Art for an Art Humanities class, free tickets to In The Heights or Young Frankenstein on Broadway through our Urban New York program, or an internship at the United Nations. The opportunities are endless.

As Co-Chairs of the Multicultural Recruitment Committee it is our honor to be able to share our experiences, our joys and our love for Columbia with all of you. Take advantage of our website, visit our campus and get to know Columbia and its diverse opportunities. If you would like to learn more about student life at Columbia, feel free to email us at mrcinfo@columbia.edu.

Hope to see you soon,
Ruqayyah Abdul-Karim and Fayette Colon
MRC Co-Chairs