Potentially too risky of a diversity statement? Forum

[zappygoldfish]

Hi there, I wanted to get some insight on the topic of my diversity statement. I wrote about my long time struggle with anxiety and OCD and how that shaped me as a person and gave me insight on myself and other people. I talked about how even though those years were awful, I learned a lot from them and in the end they were important to becoming me. I touched on how this has allowed me to help other people, and always keep on pushing forward through terrible situations. In the intro of the essay it mentions a tattoo I have which is significant to me because of these struggles, which then segways into the main discussion, so all in all I'm worried that this topic may be too much. Thoughts?

[Giro423]

I doubt it's too risky, but it will depend on how you explain. I think your grades/scores will speak most loudly about how it may affect your ability as a student. If these are respectable, explaining your situation with these conditions I imagine would only strengthen those numbers, while simultaneously increasing your desirability. I think that many schools are happy to hear about people overcoming conditions such as this.

[Mr. Archer]

It's hard to tell whether this works without actually reading it. There's lots of issues with attorneys and mental health, so it's a little bit of a sensitive topic. I don't think schools discriminate against people with mental illness, but I'm not sure it makes you more attractive as an applicant as far as diversity is concerned. Good luck crafting the story.