As PhD programs around the country plan for the next app cycle, I imagine that you might be thinking more about how you recruit URM applicants. But I need you to take a step back and do some self-reflection first.

What have you done to support and uplift the URM students who are already in your program? Have you asked them what they needed? Did you listen when they told you? Did you make any concrete changes?

Because if you didn't, & now you're pivoting to recruit more URMs...you're selling a lie. You're trying to draw in more vulnerable people to a space that's not safe for them. If the URMs who are already there don't feel supported, how can you possibly think you're ready for more?

When you reach out to your current URM students & ask them to help with recruitment, to talk to applicants...have you checked first to find out how they feel about whatever progress you think you've made? Or are you asking them to take on more labor to cover up your shortcomings?

People have been saying this since forever but I'll say it again: your DEI efforts cannot start and end with recruitment.