What should I write in a personal history statement (diversity statement) if I am not at all diverse? I am applying for a PhD program in Computer Science. The university asks each applicant to hand in an optional personal history statement. I have detailed my research experience, career goals clearly in my statement of purpose. Hence I don't really know what I should write in a personal history statement. I am an average Asian student and do not have anything special. Any ideas on this essay?

EDIT: below is what they actually require:


  The purpose of this optional essay is to get to know you as an
  individual and as a potential graduate student, and to understand how
  your background will add to the diversity of our school. Please
  describe how your personal background has motivated you to pursue a
  graduate degree. You may discuss educational, familial, cultural,
  socioeconomic, or personal experiences or challenges; gender identity;
  community services, outreach services, first-generation college status
  or other matters relevant to your decision to pursue graduate
  education. Please note that the Personal History Statement is not
  meant to be a general autobiography.
Concisely and honestly.

You'll look like an idiot if you cite your love of [insert minority] or your [questionable claim] heritage or your vast experience with [sympathetic cause]. 

Instead, just write a brief statement that explains how you'll bring "diversity" to the program through your interests and experiences. You can also briefly mention your cultural background. The key thing is to keep this concise and not to say things that you wouldn't feel comfortable saying to a professor in person over a conversation. The common trap is to "pour your guts out" or to pander by making tenuous claims.

If this is an optional statement, you can skip it (particularly in STEM fields), but most people use this as an opportunity to "humanize" themselves by telling non-work-related stories.