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Interesting dilemma. I would say in the end it is up to you. If you are a registered member of the tribe and have documentation, people couldn't say your not, for you have that documentation. However, it might be hard to write your diversity statement. So in the end, it's up to you.

Edit: Strategically, I think the best route to go would be to check the box but not due the diversity statement. You may get that chance of the URM boost or you may not, but you don't lose anything. It's probably better than not checking it and writing something.

OP, honestly, I'd only do the URM bit if you really want HYS. With those numbers you're a lock at at least half the t14.

OP, why wouldn't you check the Native American box? If you have a tribal membership card, then it's accurate.

I don't know what affecting your worldview has to do with it...The URM question is a factual question.

I would write a separate DS that is as thoughtful as your post here on the subject, and you'll be fine.

umichgrad wrote:OP, honestly, I'd only do the URM bit if you really want HYS. With those numbers you're a lock at at least half the t14.

I'd agree that if you want HYS, then URM would be the way to go. But seriously, think of the scholly money at the rest of the T-14. It could be amazing. We're talking being competitive for Darrows, Hamiltons, etc. Potential full-ride scholarships. However, you should always stay true to yourself. If a certain course of action leaves you with a guilty conscience, I wouldn't pursue it. hth

Edit: I agree with the guy above me. Checking the AI box is accurate. Writing a PS or DS on being AI would be disingenuous and a bad idea.

you ARE a urm and you should use that to your advantage. there is no ethical problem here. chances are that if you have a real affiliation to a tribe, some of your ancestors got really f'ed at some point. you may not have immediately experienced that, but if you look at the big picture maybe that is why you are at a state school instead of an ivy-league (socioeconomic status perhaps. sorry if i am prying here).

now it would be rather shady to write a full-fledged diversity statement about how much your heritage has meant to you, but one that just illustrates the fact that you are indeed part native-american seems ethical and sufficient.

englawyer wrote:you ARE a urm and you should use that to your advantage. there is no ethical problem here. chances are that if you have a real affiliation to a tribe, some of your ancestors got really f'ed at some point. you may not have immediately experienced that, but if you look at the big picture maybe that is why you are at a state school instead of an ivy-league (socioeconomic status perhaps. sorry if i am prying here).

now it would be rather shady to write a full-fledged diversity statement about how much your heritage has meant to you, but one that just illustrates the fact that you are indeed part native-american seems ethical and sufficient.

+1 great post

lolz at "socioeconomic status" being why OP is at a state school instead of ivy league.

umichgrad wrote:lolz at "socioeconomic status" being why OP is at a state school instead of ivy league.

why is that? plenty of smart & capable people go to the local TTT state school for financial reasons. in massachusetts for example, if you get X score on the statewide exam you can go for free (at least when i graduated high school, hopefully that program is still in effect).

umichgrad wrote:lolz at "socioeconomic status" being why OP is at a state school instead of ivy league.

10% $$, 90% S.O. lol. Neither factor has disappointed.