Should I write a DS for HLS? Forum

[honeybadger12]

I've gotten conflicting opinions on the ds. Some people say everyone should write a ds because it gives you fifty percent more space to talk to the admissions committee and you might seem lazy if you don't. Other people say that because I'm a white male I should stay away from a ds. If I'm not sure I'd have anything great to say in a ds (my ps will address diversity to some extent) would skipping it a) hurt me b) help me or c) doesn't matter?

[SaintsTheMetal]

Consensus is write it only if you have something meaningful to say. If you make up some bullshit, the ad-coms aren't stupid and will know it. It could then hurt you, or best-case scenario, not help at all.

[AntipodeanPhil]

Consensus is write it only if you have something meaningful to say. If you make up some bullshit, the ad-coms aren't stupid and will know it. It could then hurt you, or best-case scenario, not help at all.

+1

I've read a few diversity statements written by white males. The best come across as boring and/or exaggerated; the worst come across as bitter. They also show poor judgment, IMO.

That said, I'm sure there are white males who could write great diversity statements - those who have done things that make them genuinely diverse. If you spent your childhood in the Highlands of Papua New Guinea with your missionary parents, for example, write a DS. If you grew up in the suburbs, don't bother.

[honeybadger12]

Thanks for the feedback! I grew up in poverty (until 13), but I'll probably mention that in my PS. Some people have also said I could write a DS about being a small business owner, but I'd rather not do that to be honest. As long as it won't hurt me to just stick to the PS, I'll probably do that.

[Nova]

I grew up in poverty (until 13)

That would make a good DS, IMO.

[thederangedwang]

I grew up in poverty (until 13)

That would make a good DS, IMO.

but make sure it actually is poverty...like damm son you were fucking po white trash....not that you had to live in an apt until you were 13.

[JamMasterJ]

I grew up in poverty (until 13)

That would make a good DS, IMO.

depending on the level of poverty and the extent to which it formed you perspective on life, this is credited