What experiences do you have relating to people with backgrounds different from your own?
"I grew up in a very diverse community. Many of my neighbors weren't as fortunate as I was, and that realization was ever present in my life. I believe that underrepresented and underserved communities deserve the same treatment, respect, and dignity as those born into privilege. I've always been a firm believer that everyone should be able to feel comfortable being their authentic self without judgment or preconception, so I do my best to make everyone around me feel supported, embraced, and heard. That's part of why I'm pursuing a career in healthcare - to ensure everyone has the same opportunity to be cared for and granted the same liberties as everyone else. That includes living a long and healthy life."
Touro places an above-average focus on diversity, underprivileged, and underserved populations and communities. Nearly every mission state, core value, and messaging on their site mentions it.
"Bring primary care to medically under-resourced populations. We actively seek students who will focus on this in their careers. Our mission is to increase access to quality healthcare. In pursuit of that, our curriculum includes student training at clinical sites that serve medically underserved populations. Using a social justice framework and a public health lens, the mission of the Joint MSPAS/MPH Program is to: Recruit applicants from under-resourced communities and individuals with a demonstrated interest in serving these communities, Educate PAs who will provide culturally sensitive care and advocate for under-resourced communities, Increase access to high-quality care for under-resourced communities with an emphasis in primary care. Primary care is the backbone of the U.S. healthcare system to achieve health-equity. Educating empathetic PAs who provide patient-centered, culturally sensitive, gender-equitable, evidence-based care to all patients, especially historically underresourced communities, across the lifespan as members of an interprofessional team."
When discussing under-represented communities, diversity, and inclusion, demonstrate empathy and acceptance. On even the most inherently human level, we are all driven by the same basic needs and unifying experiences. Focus on the unifiers of diversity, on a general acceptance of the human experience, and on the sensitivities of those from underrepresented communities. Communicate clearly and decisively. The last thing you want to do is come across as uncomfortable or out of your element when answering this question.
Unlock all 40 Touro University questions
Unlock expert responses tailored to Touro's holistic admissions approach and clinical focus.
Get Started