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In many of the schools' diversity statement instructions they mention "unique professional backgrounds" as something maybe worth mentioning in a diversity statement.

I've worked for Congress for almost two years in a junior policy role - I'm wondering is this 'qualifies.' I'm definitely not an URM. I don't want to write about how I'm different than other candidates because I've worked in Congress, then come across as an idiot because I did an essay that was reserved for URMs. Make sense?

I guess another thought I have on this is: is this something that you look stupid not doing, i.e. everyone finds something diverse about themselves (rightfully so). Or is the diversity statement truly reserved for URM's?

Any thoughts on this would be much appreciated.

I wouldn't say working on Capitol Hill qualifies as a unique professional experience. In any case, your professional work will be evident on your resume.

The essays are not reserved for URMs, but I don't think your experience qualifies.

Don't worry - the diversity statement is truly optional.

if you have to ask...