These experiences are usually a substantial boost to any student s self-confidence and drive for advanced study. When considering minority student applicants who have spent most of their youth in the United States, admissions committees should recognize and give credit for these students academic and psychological persistence and resilience. Tactfully ask the applicants to discuss the kind of barriers they have overcome thus far. Find out how the students have dealt with racism and sexism, and try to sense how determined they are to succeed and realize their ambitions, despite these and other disadvantages. Find out if the students wish to give back to their communities or to society, in general.
Altruism is a good sign.
Some experts have characterized as fire in the belly the cluster of strengths named above. Some kind of fire and passion is, of course, promising to see in majority students as well, for it predicts persistence in the face of barriers and problems. Talk directly with those in authority who are recommending the applicant to you. Sometimes their letters of recommendation do not present their insights in language or format or diction which will be pleasing to you. Do not hold this against the student.