Avid Evil - UWC application

Prompt: Describe a challenge you faced in your academic or personal life. How did you address it, what support systems or resources did you use, and what lessons did you learn from the experience? How has this influenced the way you approach challenges today? (Maximum limit: 150 words).

Essay: As an avid reader, books were doors through which I let my imagination run wild. They shaped
who I am today. So, it was an unpleasant surprise when I found myself reluctant to explore
female perspectives in literature and growing up surrounded by strong educated women, I knew
it was a problem I needed to address.
I turned to my sister, a fellow book enthusiast, for guidance. She suggested starting small-with
stories featuring dual protagonists and working my way up. Following her advice, I discovered
incredible stories, realizing I didn't need to relate 100% to understand or appreciate a character.
This experience has taught me the values of diversity, that I didn't need to relate with
someone 100% of the time to empathize and understand them. It has helped me step
outside my comfort zone, and approach people and problems alike, with an open mind

The response is not impactful at all even though the topic of diversity is a well known and highly discussed topic. Maybe because the topic does not have an impact that could have resulted in an impactful outcome for you or the other people in the situation. The lesson is too simplistic. Yes, it deals with an aspect of character development on your part but, the situation is not one that required you to learn from others either through shared experiences or a marked change in your mindset based on the influence of others upon you. The solution is not one that forced you to face up to something that would alter your mindset in a profound way. Perhaps you should consider a topic stronger than reading to deal with the subject of diversity apprehension on your part?

I couldn't work out the diversity angle but how about this

Essay : At summer camp, I was picked last for basketball again, my teammates' sneers cutting deep. Rumors had spread that I was mean, selfish, even unhygienic-lies crafted by someone I couldn't confront. He was charismatic, a natural leader, and I was the quiet one who kept to a small circle. My isolation only fueled the whispers, leaving me eating alone and dreading group activities.

After weeks of humiliation, I confided in my sister. She told me to stay calm, not retaliate, and let my actions speak louder than the lies. Embarrassed but determined, I followed her advice. Over the next two weeks, I made an effort to smile, reach out, and show kindness. Slowly, the rumors faded, and I found myself laughing with new friends.

On the last day, I forgave the boy who started it all-he never asked for it, but I needed it. I learned resilience, empathy, and the power of small actions to change perceptions.