How are immigrants viewed?

[UnmistakableHolly]

I came to America at age 18. am debating whether to write a diversity statement about my immigration experience (or perhaps working it into my personal statement). It's certainly an important part of my motivation, and the source of most my challenges in life, but I'm worried about prejudice. I want to go into public interest law (hopefully with the Department of Justice) for patriotic reasons, and it's been my experience that most people just don't "get it." They don't seem to understand that being an immigrant means I'm American. Can I expect admissions committees to be more sensible?

[ManoftheHour]

It is unlikely to be viewed as a negative from an admissions standpoint. The topic could probably give you ammo for a compelling personal/diversity statement.

I mean, there are non-legal immigrants in law schools and public schools all over so I cannot imagine that this would affect you negatively if that is what you are worried about.