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Diversity + Inclusion

Diversity and Inclusion

Diversity. Equity. Empowerment.

Employer Video Series: Supporting Under-Represented Students


Top employers share their thoughts on empowering underrepresented students and why diversity, equity, and inclusion are so important in the workplace.


The Importance of Diversity: Voices, Perspectives, Backgrounds


Building a community that's diverse by design.


Diversity of thought and experience fortifies and strengthens our capacity to advance human knowledge and to enable transformational education experiences. Our myriad personal journeys that shape our minds and characters are enriched by interacting with others who have a different point of view or have been shaped by a very different set of experiences.   

Fostering a diverse and inclusive climate promotes rigorous inquiry, increasing the likelihood that incorrect assumptions will be questioned—frequently the first step towards field-defining research and discovery. This principled conception of the role of diversity throughout the University is thus intertwined with our bedrock commitments to free expression and academic freedom. The possibility of enhanced discovery that diversity enables can only be realized when assumptions are questioned, when openness to hearing about the journeys of others and their opinions is genuine. 

It is for these reasons that we promote a culture of free expression in an academic, research, and work environment that includes people with a wide variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and ideas. We are committed to building and supporting a diverse and inclusive climate where each person’s ideas and contributions can flourish. Embracing diversity and inclusion enhances the experience of all members of our community. Together, these efforts strengthen our distinctive intellectual environment, which in turn helps us grow and thrive as a leading global research university. Such an open and inclusive mindset also increases our effectiveness in engaging beyond the University to help bring the benefits of our work to communities and societies here and abroad."

-President Paul Alivisatos and Provost Katherine Baicker

UChicago is home to 7,000+ undergraduates from many different identities, cultures, and geographic locations – each with their own unique strengths and talents.

Career Advancement helps students draw on their diverse perspectives and backgrounds to reimagine what’s possible, drive innovation, and make an impact in communities around the world.

Our UChicago Community

  • 7,000+ undergraduate students
  • 51% students of color
  • 16% international students
  • 50+ languages spoken

Leveling the Playing Field and Bridging Gaps


Breaking down barriers to opportunity and success.


Not every student comes to college with the same resources and experiences. But regardless of where you’re starting from, we’re here to help you build your skills, gain experience, and reach your goals.

Career Advancement collaborates with employers of many different industries to offer programs and resources that prepare underrepresented students for success, including:

Career Advancement Programs

  • Diversity + Inclusion Summit. Celebrate diversity in the workplace and connect with employers who are committed to hiring diverse talent. This day-long, conference style event will include breakout session workshops and networking opportunities. The summit will be held on February 2, 2024. Express your interest by filling out this form - we look forward to connecting with you!
  • Luther H. Foster, Jr. Public Service Internship Program. The Luther H. Foster, Jr. Public Service Internship Program provides career resources, leadership development, and funded internship opportunities for students who are dedicated to promoting the success of underrepresented populations in public interest careers. The program will provide internships and professional development resources for students committed to amplifying these voices in politics and social impact. The program is open to all students, including those from backgrounds that have historically been underrepresented in public service. The program is named in honor of Luther H. Foster, Jr., AM’41, Ph.D’51, UChicago alumnus and distinguished leader of the Tuskegee Institute (now known as Tuskegee University).
  • Rogers Scholars Program in Finance. To help students launch successful careers in financial services, the program provides personalized advising, training in technical skills, and funded internships at nonprofit investment offices. All College students are welcome to participate. The program is funded by a generous gift from John W. Rogers, Jr., LAB’76, University Trustee, and Chairman and CEO of Ariel Investments.
  • Odyssey Metcalf Internship Program. As part of the University’s Odyssey Scholarship for students from families with limited income, Career Advancement gives all Odyssey Scholars the opportunity to complete a funded internship in the summer after their first year in the College. In addition to this paid internship, Odyssey Scholars benefit from quarterly check-ins with specially trained career advisers and professional development workshops that prepare them to thrive during their summer internship.
  • Odyssey Metcalf Fellowship Grant. The Odyssey Metcalf Fellowship Grant provides funding for second through fourth-year Odyssey Scholars who have secured unpaid internships. The program allows students to pursue their passion with a stipend for their summer living expenses. Remote and onsite internships in any industry are eligible.
  • Rising Attorneys Program. The Careers in Law team is proud to offer the Rising Attorneys Program, dedicated to promoting the success of future law students with a special focus on issues relevant to those from low-income families and underrepresented populations. The program is open to all rising third- and fourth-year students and recent alumni planning to apply to law school within the next five years who can commit to taking the LSAT during the next year.
  • Trott Emerging Business Leaders Program. The Trott Emerging Business Leaders Program is a selective cohort of first-year students from low and middle-income families, first-generation, and rural backgrounds. The program offers a series of career exploration events and internships to help students get on the fast track to success in business. The program is funded by a generous gift from Trott Family Philanthropies and BDT & MSD Partners.      

Lead by Example


Be a leader in your community and support the success of those who come after you.


Career Advancement can help you find opportunities to build leadership skills, find mentors, and share what you’ve learned with the next generation of students. Your story can inspire students to take new paths, aim high, and stay motivated.

There are many ways you can help yourself and your peers, including:

  • Find a mentor, be a mentor. Sign up for an account on UChicago Wisr where you can connect with successful UChicago alumni across a wide range of industries. After you graduate, stay involved with Wisr and give students the opportunity to reach out to you for career advice. By sharing as little as 30 minutes of your time, you can change a student’s life!
  • Hire UChicago interns. Give students the skills and experience they need to thrive in the job market by providing opportunities through the Jeff Metcalf Internship Program and specialized diversity internship cohorts.
  • Become a UChicago champion at your employer. Advocate for current students by encouraging your employer to hire from UChicago and participate in diversity recruiting programs.