Question about diversity essay

[BachDoc]

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Hi, I'm just struggling a bit with the "what do you bring to the diversity of x school" type of secondary prompt. I've read lots of old threads on this and they have been helpful, but I have a specific question about my situation.

I was homeschooled all the way through high school and I always have been heavily involved in a church community, but I am a bit concerned talking about these things since I know there is a negative perception (often accurate, I know) about some Christians. As an example, when people think of Christians, many think that they are homophobic and otherwise closed-minded. I definitely know Christians like this, but personally I am an LGBT ally and I make sure my own church is an accepting and open place.
My question: do you think I should avoid mentioning my spiritual background or go ahead and talk about it? I feel like it is a big part of my identity just because it has always been a big part of my life, but don't want to talk about it if I will be perceived badly.

Thanks for any help, I appreciate it!

 

[neurophilic]

Hi, I'm just struggling a bit with the "what do you bring to the diversity of x school" type of secondary prompt. I've read lots of old threads on this and they have been helpful, but I have a specific question about my situation.

I was homeschooled all the way through high school and I always have been heavily involved in a church community, but I am a bit concerned talking about these things since I know there is a negative perception (often accurate, I know) about some Christians. As an example, when people think of Christians, many think that they are homophobic and otherwise closed-minded. I definitely know Christians like this, but personally I am an LGBT ally and I make sure my own church is an accepting and open place.
My question: do you think I should avoid mentioning my spiritual background or go ahead and talk about it? I feel like it is a big part of my identity just because it has always been a big part of my life, but don't want to talk about it if I will be perceived badly.

Thanks for any help, I appreciate it!

Depends on the school. I'd say talking about your spirituality is probably a good idea when applying to schools such as Loma Linda. Other schools I'm not so sure but if you're that worried then talk about something else that makes you unique.

 

[AttemptingScholar]

Hi, I'm just struggling a bit with the "what do you bring to the diversity of x school" type of secondary prompt. I've read lots of old threads on this and they have been helpful, but I have a specific question about my situation.

I was homeschooled all the way through high school and I always have been heavily involved in a church community, but I am a bit concerned talking about these things since I know there is a negative perception (often accurate, I know) about some Christians. As an example, when people think of Christians, many think that they are homophobic and otherwise closed-minded. I definitely know Christians like this, but personally I am an LGBT ally and I make sure my own church is an accepting and open place.
My question: do you think I should avoid mentioning my spiritual background or go ahead and talk about it? I feel like it is a big part of my identity just because it has always been a big part of my life, but don't want to talk about it if I will be perceived badly.

Thanks for any help, I appreciate it!

You don't want to go to a school that doesn't accept a big part of your identity. Being religious in America is pretty normal (indeed, not that diverse). You aren't rocking anyone's boats with this.

 

[cactusman]

Well about 70% of the US population identifies as Christian, so unless a large chunk of them have internalized anti-Christian sentiment (unlikely, most Americans have more negative views of atheists and non-Muslim people), the odds are in your favor.

Religion-motivated service and other religious involvement will be a non-issue and a boost at some schools.

 

[Goro]

Hi, I'm just struggling a bit with the "what do you bring to the diversity of x school" type of secondary prompt. I've read lots of old threads on this and they have been helpful, but I have a specific question about my situation.

I was homeschooled all the way through high school and I always have been heavily involved in a church community, but I am a bit concerned talking about these things since I know there is a negative perception (often accurate, I know) about some Christians. As an example, when people think of Christians, many think that they are homophobic and otherwise closed-minded. I definitely know Christians like this, but personally I am an LGBT ally and I make sure my own church is an accepting and open place.
My question: do you think I should avoid mentioning my spiritual background or go ahead and talk about it? I feel like it is a big part of my identity just because it has always been a big part of my life, but don't want to talk about it if I will be perceived badly.

Thanks for any help, I appreciate it!

Might not go over well at the Touros, Sackler, or Einstein.