<p>I've had major trouble coming up with a diversity topic. I know enough to steer clear of race/ethnicity because a) I know it's the overdone definition of "diverse" and b) I don't think I could pull it off without sounding contrived. Anyway, this is the best I could come up with, for now, on what is diverse about me. I welcome any advice or alternatives!</p>
<p>"My freshman year, I shared a theatre arts class with a redheaded social activist with bizarre fashion sense and a demeanor that seemed so quiet at the time. We were both "sit at the back" types, uncomfortable freshmen in a class teeming with variety of personality. That December we were paired for a scene together, which after hard work and rehearsing together resulted in the only 'A' performance in class. She's been my best friend for four years. That same class I shared with a boy, an athlete whom I was smitten with and had a girlfriend I inevitably hated by association. We both were in plays together that year. He's one of the best listeners I know, and I want nothing more than our good friendship. As for the girlfriend, she came out to me as a lesbian a year and half later. She's one of my closest friends and eventually became one of the most dedicated performers I've seen. I do not mean to suggest that the mere fact that theatre has given me a place to meet diverse people has in turn made me diverse. But without the amount of time I've spent following my interest in theatre, I would never have been blessed with the ever-broadening perspective my circle and mentors have helped shape. I am grateful not only for the improving rational thought it's given me, but for critical thinking and confidence in social, theatrical, and general situations."</p>