<p>So programs like CMU SAMS want applicants to write about how they would increase diversity and culture and whatnot. What exactly does this mean--is it intentionally broad, or do they want to hear about my socioeconomic background? In addition, how much is political and/or a religious diversity a factor here--should that be mentioned somewhere?</p>
<p>Oh, and if I'm not really diverse, any ideas on what I should write? ;)</p>
<p>Bump. Any ideas?</p>
<p>You could write your views on different diverse events… your friends bah mitzvah… your foreign exchange student, the poor kid begging on the street… how do these effect you emotionally/personally?</p>
<p>Unfortunately, I a) have never experienced such events; and b) not sure how that applies to the question of “how would you add to Program X’s diversity?”</p>
<p>True, but having understanding and compassion are worth something in the world of diversity… Have you spent a day in a wheelchair?</p>
<p>What makes you uniquely you? That is your diversity. </p>
<p>What I wrote about with that prompt was my interest and involvement in other cultures.</p>
<p>I don’t know anything much about the admissions program and requirements at CMU SAMS, but it seems to me that they want to see why you’re diverse, not what your views on diversity in general are. So, like SmIten said, “what makes you uniquely you?”. I think the admissions committee wants to see what’s different about you, and how you would be a unique/valuable addition to their program. Consider writing about things you have which are really special: a talent, a quality, a certain look on life, etc.
Good luck, and hope I helped!
Note: I haven’t looked into the program, so I may be entirely wrong, but from the prompt, it looks like this is what they want to know.</p>