Diversity statements allow applicants to reveal their unique history.
Universities, graduate colleges and law schools often require diversity statements to apply for admission into their program. These statements give applicants a chance to establish any difficulties they have overcome in their life due to minority status or economic hardships. Writing a clear and effective statement not only gives the applicant a chance to set themselves apart from the pack but also allows them a chance to explain any discrepancies on the application.
Instructions
1. Brainstorm about the challenges you have faced in your life. Did you face discrimination or obstacles due to race, sex or class? These are ideal issues to present in a diversity statement. Only use challenges that are completely authentic to your experience in your life.
2. Create an outline of the diversity statement. Start with a narrative of the challenge you face in the first paragraph. Then write about why this experience has affected you and how it has shaped you in the present moment. Finally write about how you overcame this challenge and how you plan to overcome challenges in the future.
3. Write the essay using clear sentences and grammar. Appeal to the audience by painting a vivid picture of your experience and draw the reader in quickly. For example, "As a young child, I was always told I could not become a lawyer. I never understood why until I turned thirteen." Keep the story simple and straightforward.
4. Write about why you will make a unique and diverse student. Illustrate clearly in the following paragraphs the actions you have taken and plan on taking to reach your goals. Connect these goals to the initial narrative but also be sure to move beyond telling a story of hardship and misfortune. An example would be, "Although my years in an upper crust high school were often difficult, the education and perseverance I learned during those years have given me tools for pursuing my career as a lawyer." Then continue to outline how a solid education and a relish for hard work will continue to serve your career.
5. Avoid cliches in your writing such as "I want to change the world." Talk instead about the specific things you want to accomplish and how you will go about accomplishing those goals. For example, "I hope to use my degree in law to work with underprivileged women and children" or "I plan to work with troubled youth in the court system."
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