Localization: We provided Sarah with a locally relevant topic—the impact of technology on cultural practices in her community—to illustrate authentic engagement and develop her perspective.

Specificity: We focused on building around a specific concept related to cultural anthropology—technology’s influence on cultural evolution.

Strategic Prospective Major Adaptation: We adapted Sarah’s prospective major from computer science to cultural anthropology within the same college type to leverage the less competitive admission landscape while maintaining access to computer science courses.

Ethos Development: We combined Sarah’s personal factors and engagement experiences to develop a clear and authentic application ethos/theme/brand.

Suggested Additional Engagements:

• Locally Relevant Research Question: How does technology shape cultural practices in our community?
  
  • Cultural Anthropology Project:
    • Collaboration with the Local Historical Society:
      • Studied the digitization of local historical archives and its impact on community engagement.
      • Organized a community workshop on preserving digital heritage.
    • Fieldwork and Data Collection:
      • Conducted interviews with community members on the influence of social media on local traditions.
      • Analyzed changes in community interaction patterns due to technological advancements.
  • Research and Publication:
    • Published a 25-page paper on “Technology and Cultural Evolution in Small Communities” in the Curieux Academic Journal.
      
      
• Academically Relevant Volunteerism:
  • Tech for Good Initiative:
    • Volunteered at the local library to teach elderly community members how to use digital tools to stay connected.
    • Developed a curriculum for a community center program on digital literacy.
      
      

Developing the Ethos:

• Personal Qualities: Innovative, empathetic, analytical, community-oriented.
• Ethos Statement: “I have always been fascinated by how technology can transform our lives, but it wasn’t until I explored its impact on cultural practices in my community that I realized the profound interconnectedness of technology and anthropology. Understanding these dynamics has shown me that the future of technology lies in its ability to preserve and enhance our cultural heritage.”
• Infusion of Ethos into Application Elements: We ensured that Sarah’s application clearly conveyed her personal qualities and experiences related to interdisciplinary innovation and cultural anthropology.