spideygirl

I disagree with Prefect. If you are, in fact, of Native American descent, it really doesn't matter how you have lived your life culturally since birth. I think that is ridiculous.

Despite our ethnic or racial backgrounds, we all come from families which have chosen or fallen into certain lifestyles or patterns of behavior. Those outcomes do not change our ethnicity or race, however.

I think Muffy makes an interesting point, but I would think that the colleges themselves can decide whether or not your particular background meets their admission goals. It really isn't up to anyone else to judge whether or not you have been disadvantaged in any way, unless they want to have a sit-down with you and spend a few weeks hearing your life story. I am sure that your Native American background plays a unique role in the story of your family.

Just present your situation honestly, and back it up with as much documentation as you can. Don't be disuaded by those who may have a knee jerk reaction to weed you out as an "imposter". Every race and ethnic group has members who would like to reject those who don't match their version of what it means to belong. Other underrepresented groups have members who are sometimes overly sensitive when they perceive that individuals could be taking advantage of a system which could help to level the playing field. Just be who you are, approach the application honestly, and let the adcoms decide.