Hello,
I am very confused about what diversity exactly means. Specifically speaking, UW’s prompt,
“Our families and communities often define us and our individual worlds. Community might refer to your cultural group, extended family, religious group, neighborhood or school, sports team or club, co-workers, etc. Describe the world you come from and how you, as a product of it, might add to the diversity of the University of Washington”.
I am a second generation Korean-American girl in the lower class. However, I am really aiming to write something other than about my ethnicity/economic status-it just seems too predictable and cliché. I read many articles and discussions on what colleges mean by diversity, and I am understanding that it can just be anything that makes you stand out, and that is unique. I really wanted to write about how I am very into cooking (I am known by my community for making healthy meals). However, how does this relate to diversity? Am I going too off topic? I really want to think out of the box for this one. Any help is appreciated, thank you.
Bring it to life. But make it relevant to the readers.
In general, making healthy meals is not a tip into college. But combining that with appreciation for your culture, community, family (and maybe how you share this with others) might work, might show them the sort of gal you are, some grounding, energy, and good will.
thankyou!
do you think it is too risky to write about this?
I don’t think it’s really what the college is asking about.
I think it’s not risky if done well, if you understand what they want to see in you, for their community. It’s not a “biography” sort of question, but to see the “you” that comes through in the answer. Eg, if you show them you’re comfortable in your culture, appreciate those you cook with, experiment, share with others (eg, friends who may not be Korean,) etc, they can envision you as an individual on campus, bringing some value to your day too day presence, open to new people and ideas, and more.
I’ve seen these sorts of responses and they can be charming. Just remember, it’s for adcoms. What you show should be the sorts of attributes they look for.
thank you so much for your guy’s help.
I will try writing about it and see how it goes. In case it does not work out, is writing about my ethnicity/economic status an OK topic to write about? although generic, is it safe?
yes.