Diversity is one of the most crucial subjects in regards to higher education admissions. Some higher education institutions exclude minority and marginalized groups from gaining admissions. For instance, Fisher vs. The University of Texas was a Supreme Court case that brought about a debate about diversity in universities ( Tienda, 2013). DeBray-Pelot and McGuinn (2009) posit that an institution's policies should provide opportunities for marginalized and minority groups in America during admission. Diversity refers to a combination of different ideas, cultures, traditions, and people. In universities, diversity refers to inclusion and assimilation of marginalized and minority groups. It is crucial because it promotes the development of a nation, prepares students for the future workforce and brings about different knowledge since students are exposed to numerous viewpoints.
Universities are regarded as roads towards the advancement of the United States. Consequently, they ought to be used as tools of ensuring equity in the society. Moreover, higher education has been regarded as the main driving force behind the socioeconomic advancement. For this reason, admitting students from different racial and cultural backgrounds is important as it helps them to cope with the ever-changing society.
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Diversity in higher education helps the students to succeed. It also exposes the students to different viewpoints and cultures which equips them to cope in a more globalized and diverse work environment. For instance, diversity saves live in the healthcare field. Research by Scott and Zerwic (2015) shows that diversity promotes quality health care, gives patients confidence, and provides better access to healthcare.
The admission office in universities has the responsibility to determine who gains admission. It has great power over potential students and structures the future workforce indirectly. The admission office should, therefore, conduct a transparent and equitable admission which aims at incorporating students from different racial and cultural backgrounds. This is crucial for enrollment of diverse students with qualities required for academic success and beyond. To achieve admission of diverse students, university admission offices should consider holistic admission which refers to a highly personalized analysis of every applicant’s data and giving a deep attention to how an individual will support a diverse learning environment ( Scott & Zerwic, 2015). It can also be defined as a strategy by university admissions that reviews an individual’s unique experiences alongside academic credentials.
References
DeBray-Pelot, E., & McGuinn, P. (2009). The new politics of education: Analyzing the federal education policy landscape in the post-NCLB era. Educational Policy , 23 (1), 15-42.
Scott, L. D., & Zerwic, J. (2015). Holistic review in admissions: A strategy to diversify the nursing workforce. Nursing outlook , 63 (4), 488-495.
Tienda, M. (2013). Diversity≠ inclusion: Promoting integration in higher education. Educational Researcher , 42 (9), 467-475.
