Tulane Students Face Strict Beauty Standards During Sorority Rush, Mardi Gras

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New Orleans's reputation for music, color, and chaos influences Tulane University, which presents itself as a campus defined by individuality rather than convention. Despite this, students at Tulane operate under a narrow set of beauty standards, with an expectation to have tan skin, curled hair that survives the humidity, a natural makeup look, and outfits that appear both carefree and curated, especially during events like sorority rush and Mardi Gras.

Why it matters

The pressure to conform to strict beauty standards can negatively impact students' mental health and self-esteem, and goes against Tulane's reputation as a diverse and inclusive campus. This issue highlights the broader societal problem of unrealistic beauty ideals, especially for young people.

The details

Tulane's campus culture, influenced by New Orleans' vibrant atmosphere, is often portrayed as embracing individuality. However, students report feeling immense pressure to adhere to a specific look, especially during high-profile events like sorority rush and Mardi Gras. This includes having tanned skin, perfectly styled hair, natural-looking makeup, and outfits that appear effortlessly put together.

• Sorority rush takes place each year at Tulane.
• Mardi Gras is an annual celebration in New Orleans.