Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

GS Mission

Since its inception, GS has focused on providing access and opportunity to the full diversity of students to elite higher education. GS is, at its core, a mission for social justice and just societies. Anti-racism work has been a central part of GS, and we continue to evaluate and adapt these efforts in today’s environment.

Community Initiatives

Columbia GS Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Taskforce

The School convened the DEI Taskforce in Fall 2020 to work towards an anti-racist, multicultural GS that builds on our long-term commitment to education access and equity for students of all backgrounds.

Social Justice Programming

GS Student Life offers identity- and interest-based social events, discussions on social justice, and leadership opportunities that aim to foster a greater appreciation for self-reflection, build community, and make a positive impact in the world.

Alumni Connection

The General Studies Alumni Association (GSAA) Board helps develop programming that focuses on diversity and inclusion, including racial justice, disability advocacy, and gender rights.

GS Prehealth Network Program

The GS Prehealth Network Program is designed for Postbac Premed and undergraduate students pursuing a premedical course of study at GS who self-identify as underrepresented in medicine.

Through a group mentorship-based model, the goal of this program is to provide invaluable insight and guidance to participants as they work towards fulfilling their aspirations to pursue a career in healthcare. Students are introduced to health professional students, public health experts, medical practitioners, and admissions representatives through a series of panel discussions and networking events.

Students are required to attend a series of bimonthly 60-minute panel discussions and workshops during the semester.

A professor and two students go over notes in front of a chalkboard

Science Foundations Summer Bridge Program

The Postbac Premed Program recognizes the essential need to increase the diversity of the health professions, and is committed to providing greater access to premedical and prehealth preparation.

The Summer Bridge Program aims to support students who identify as being from groups traditionally underrepresented in medicine in making the transition to Columbia and establishing a strong foundation for success. Programming includes peer-led community-building events alongside workshops and discussions on navigating STEM and medicine as a member of an underrepresented community. Select students also have the opportunity to participate in tuition-free summer STEM preparatory courses.