I'm working on supplemental essays for some colleges, and they ask for a diversity essay. What are some good points or experiences to highlight that can help me showcase my diversity? Thanks!
When writing a strong diversity essay, consider the following ideas to showcase your unique background and experiences:
1. Personal characteristics or identities: Discuss how your cultural background, ethnicity, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, or gender identity has shaped your life experiences and perspectives. Share anecdotes and personal stories that exhibit how you have learned, grown, or overcome challenges related to these aspects of your identity.
2. Socioeconomic background: Explain how your family's financial situation, neighborhood, or educational environment has impacted your perspective and goals. Discuss how your economic upbringing has shaped your values, aspirations, or opportunities you've sought or community engagement.
3. Unconventional interests or hobbies: Many people forget about diversity of interests! Share your passion for a niche activity or uncommon hobby that makes you stand out from other applicants. Describe the depth of your involvement and how it has influenced your perspective or broadened your understanding of the world.
4. Unique family structure or background: If you come from a non-traditional family, such as a blended family, a single-parent household, or have been raised by relatives other than your parents, discuss how that experience has created a different perspective from the "typical" family experience.
5. Overcoming adversity: Share how you have faced and overcome significant personal challenges or obstacles, such as health issues, learning disabilities, or a major life event. Show how these experiences have shaped your resilience, determination, and empathy for others.
6. Travel or living experiences: If you have lived in different countries, regions, or communities, describe how these experiences have exposed you to different cultures and helped develop a broader worldview and appreciation for diversity.
7. Multilingualism: If you can speak multiple languages, discuss how that skill has enriched your life, bridged cultural gaps, or opened up new experiences and connections for you.
When drafting your diversity essay, make sure to be genuine, thoughtful, and reflective. Show how your unique experiences have influenced your outlook and contributions to the college community, and remember to provide specific examples that illustrate your points. Good luck!
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.