<p>Hi, I’m a college student now. I’m interested in studying my master abroad. I’ve heard that most universities in the US value “diversity” as an important criterion for selecting students. How do you diversify your academic background to make yourself competitive?
Please share your experience!
Many thanks!!</p>
<p>Get new parents.</p>
<p>Good suggestion! But, it’s impossible to do so! Anyways, thanks!</p>
<p>Play some weird instrument that many people haven’t heard of…</p>
<p>I don’t have any experiences, but when they mean diverse, they usually mean something that is unique, like an uncommon hobby/skill or being a non-Asian individual learning Japanese.</p>
<p>In terms of academics, it is good to make yourself stand out by getting involve in things like research (if you are doing any academics in the sciences), internships, studying or volunteering abroad, maybe some sort of leadership position at school – whether it is peer mentoring or something like the president of a club (that you MUST be passionate about; don’t try to take on a position if you are not interested in the club or mission of the group just to build a resume). And of course, doing well in school =)</p>
<p>Despite what the colleges like to portray to the public, diversity during the admission’s process pretty much comes down to:</p>
<ol>
<li>race and ethnicity<br></li>
<li>economic situation</li>
</ol>
<p>I think you are confusing “diversity” with “hook”.</p>
<p>“Diversity” can’t be changed–you are who you are.</p>
<p>“Hook” can be created–such as being a top athlete, a published writer, a strong community service project, an oboe players, an athlete in a unconventional sport such a crew or fencing, etc. A “Hook” is something that makes you stand out above the many other top academic students that are also applying to colleges.</p>
<p>Diversify your friends. Are most if not all of your friends your own racial group? There ya go.</p>
<p>One’s not diverse himself if all his friends are his own race because he “feels” comfortable around them.</p>
<p>ssoooo… get a bunch of superficial friends from different racial backgrounds and be very uncomfortable??</p>
<p>friends should not be considered a part of your portfolio. that’s just sad… and “usery”.</p>
<p>@ Woofles…</p>
<p>There you go. I know you’re not diverse. </p>
<p>If you’re having a hard time being comfortable around people of different racial groups from a social standpoint, I can only see how you will remain uncomfortable in a work situation.</p>
<p>My suggestion has nothing to do with different friends being a type of portfolio. One’s ability to establish and develop relationships with all sorts of people will be of benefit to them in the long run especially as our country continues to grow more diverse and a demand for diversity in the work force becomes an increasing, important responsibility.</p>
<p>This thread obviously doesn’t apply to you. You’re no where near diverse. Sounds like you prefer having friends of one racial group, your own.</p>
<p>try different foods, meet new people, go to cultural events, explore different cultures.</p>
<p>hang out with a black person</p>
<p>Do a reverse Michael Jackson.</p>