Acknowledging Privilege in Diversity Essay

[helpmeout441]

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Is this a good or bad idea? My diversity essay talks about how i would bring my experiences working with underserved communities as an ED volunteer and health educator. I'm thinking of putting in one line at the beginning basically clarifying that I recognize my privilege but have made efforts to reach out to those in need. I feel like I have to say this because there are applicants who have the REAL diversity that they're looking for in this essay (disadvantaged background, access to education), so I don't want to sound like I'm trying to claim that I come from a disadvantaged background in anyways. Basically is it ok to be this direct?

 

[907914]

Is this a good or bad idea? My diversity essay talks about how i would bring my experiences working with underserved communities as an ED volunteer and health educator. I'm thinking of putting in one line at the beginning basically clarifying that I recognize my privilege but have made efforts to reach out to those in need. I feel like I have to say this because there are applicants who have the REAL diversity that they're looking for in this essay (disadvantaged background, access to education), so I don't want to sound like I'm trying to claim that I come from a disadvantaged background in anyways. Basically is it ok to be this direct?

I personally would not. That feels like you would be putting that in there specifically to pander to what you think they want to see. Address the question by saying what you are not what you are not.

 

[907914]

sounds like you mean adversity here not diversity?

Can be both. Coming from a background of social and financial disadvantage forces one to mature faster and think on their own.

 

[Cornfed101]

I start my diversity/cultural sensitivity essays with a statement about growing up in a very rural place with no culture and then becoming more cultured through experiences, but I try to avoid saying I lived in a 5000 square foot house. Don't say anything in your essays that won't benefit you. There is no need to say, "hey I've had a pretty easy life..."

Many people that apply to medical school are in the same situation. Diversity does not mean you are disadvantaged, it means you are different.