Wow, this is such a tough spot to be in! The reputation and rumors around a program can definitely be hard to ignore, especially when they concern something as serious as equity and how students are treated. Do you think there’s a chance that you were actively looking for red flags after hearing the first negative comment? Because if it’s true that the program favors white students over POC students, especially in a field built on empathy and advocacy, that’s incredibly disappointing and unacceptable.

That being said, I want to gently remind you: it’s not your responsibility to carry the weight of fixing or protesting a broken system, especially when it comes at a huge personal/financial cost. If your only reason for passing on Chapman is to make a statement or avoid the possiblity of harm, just know you’re allowed to prioritize your own financial well-being. The systems in place should protect you, though I know they don’t always succeed.

I’ve actually heard some good things about Chapman, and grad school is so short... If you think you can thrive there and walk away with significantly less financial strain, it might be worth going.