Importance of Diversity in High Schools?

Just a thought from a kid from New Hampshire here... I go to a school that's not so diverse. How can this impact me, especially in terms of college admissions? Do colleges look at the diversity of your high school when they're reviewing your application? Should I start seeking out more diverse experiences?

Although colleges evaluate applicants primarily based on their individual merits such as academics, extracurriculars, community involvement, and personal character, the context of your high school environment is considered to some extent as well. This is part of the reason why a high school profile, which includes things like average test scores, course offerings, demographic information, and more, is typically sent to colleges along with your transcript.

However, the level of diversity in your school would not directly affect your individual chance of acceptance. Admissions officers understand that students can't control the demographics of their high school. Instead, what they're primarily interested in is how you engage with the community and resources around you.

Experiencing diversity, however, can offer many benefits. It fosters a broader perspective, encourages empathy, and equips students to navigate in a multicultural world. If you feel your current environment lacks this, there are ways to seek out diverse experiences. You might consider joining clubs or activities that expose you to different cultures, viewpoints, or experiences. Engaging in community service or seeking out internships in areas with more diverse populations than your hometown can also be beneficial.

Remember - the aim is not to "diversify" merely for the sake of looking better to colleges but to genuinely expand your perspective and increase your understanding of different cultures and communities.