"We know that diversity makes us a better university -- better for learning, for teaching, and for conducting research."(U-M President Mary Sue Coleman)
Share an experience through which you have gained respect for intellectual, social, or cultural differences. Comment on how your personal experiences and achievements would contribute to the diversity of the University of Michigan.
During my sophomore year, the Diversity Club held its very first multi-cultural dinner. Students brought a meals inspired by a variety of cultures. Despite being a picky eater, I was determined to try everything that was available. My leap of faith, as it turned out, was rather rewarding. I was surprised to find that most dishes were not as different in taste compared to the Filipino meals my mom made at home. After dinner was a talent show of sorts; many students performed traditional dances and songs that reflected their heritage. One of the most memorable acts of the night involved two Bengali girls. Accompanied by a traditional Bengali folk song in the background, they danced fluidly in their brightly colored saris, with a quiet confidence that rendered the crowd speechless. Although the lyrics were incomprehensible to me, the passion conveyed by the dance was something that I felt was collectively understood.
From my experience, I learned that despite many distinctions between cultures, there is often a universal thread that inevitably links them, whether it is through music or food. This common bond enables diversity to thrive, especially in places such as the University of Michigan, where I hope I can contribute my Filipino heritage, as well as my personal experiences, to the amalgam of cultures already present in the campus.
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This was really difficult for me to write, so I hope it's not too bad. Feedback is appreciated! Thanks in advance :)
Share an experience through which you have gained respect for intellectual, social, or cultural differences. Comment on how your personal experiences and achievements would contribute to the diversity of the University of Michigan.
During my sophomore year, the Diversity Club held its very first multi-cultural dinner. Students brought a meals inspired by a variety of cultures. Despite being a picky eater, I was determined to try everything that was available. My leap of faith, as it turned out, was rather rewarding. I was surprised to find that most dishes were not as different in taste compared to the Filipino meals my mom made at home. After dinner was a talent show of sorts; many students performed traditional dances and songs that reflected their heritage. One of the most memorable acts of the night involved two Bengali girls. Accompanied by a traditional Bengali folk song in the background, they danced fluidly in their brightly colored saris, with a quiet confidence that rendered the crowd speechless. Although the lyrics were incomprehensible to me, the passion conveyed by the dance was something that I felt was collectively understood.
From my experience, I learned that despite many distinctions between cultures, there is often a universal thread that inevitably links them, whether it is through music or food. This common bond enables diversity to thrive, especially in places such as the University of Michigan, where I hope I can contribute my Filipino heritage, as well as my personal experiences, to the amalgam of cultures already present in the campus.
--
This was really difficult for me to write, so I hope it's not too bad. Feedback is appreciated! Thanks in advance :)
