The Differential Effects of On- and Off-Campus Living Arrangements on Students' Openness to Diversity*

The effects of on- and off-campus living arrangements on students’ openness to diversity were examined using data from 502 first-time-college students at a major research university in the Midwest. Results indicated that living on campus was directly associated with significantly higher levels of openness to diversity than was living off campus. Living in a Freshman Interest Group was indirectly related to greater openness to diversity through students’ relationships with their peers. No significant indirect effects were found for living in a traditional residence hall or a sponsored learning community.