Columbia University wanted to understand its students’ experiences with cross-cultural interactions, antisemitism, Islamophobia, other forms of discrimination, sense of belonging, and freedom of expression. 

Recent political events, particularly in the Middle East, have spurred high levels of student activism at institutes of higher education, including Columbia University. As a result, Columbia’s leadership has a heightened awareness of their community members’ sense of belonging on campus and the University’s responsibility to protect religious and cultural identities. Columbia is especially interested in learning about community members’ well-being and experiences with cross-cultural interactions, antisemitism, Islamophobia, and freedom of expression on campus.

NORC collected survey data from Columbia University’s student populations.

NORC surveyed the Columbia University student community about their campus experiences in general and as they relate to cross-cultural interactions, antisemitism, Islamophobia, and freedom of expression-related experiences in the summer of 2024. The survey included all types of students—those enrolled in undergraduate, graduate, and professional (law and medical) schools across campuses. Data includes perceptions of the campus community, sense of welcome and belonging, and awareness of campus resources. Additional data focuses on concerns about and experiences with cross-cultural interactions, antisemitism, Islamophobia, freedom of expression on campus, the impact of the Israel/Palestine conflict on campus, and other related topics.