How deal with community involvement dealing with politics?

[KatieB]

I'm putting my final touches on my resume and have a section where I list my volunteer projects. The last few years I have been involved with a Republican Party group. I joined mostly so I could become better educated on political issues, not that I'm a political junkie or even really like politics that much.

While during the few years I belonged to this organization, I started a book club, and served as Treasurer (over $20,000 budget). The club's focus was on political education and we raised funds to support a scholarship for people or their spouses who have served in the military.

Am I just being silly in thinking that the word 'Republican' is going to hurt my prospects. Is there a more generic way to phrase my service?

Thanks for any input!

[humblebee]

I can't comment on the sensitives of discussing politics in America being an Aussie. I was always taught it's taboo to talk about religion or politics, so i try and stay away from it in all its forms in life (written and oral).

Having said that, i think it would be sensible to remove any bias which may come from being 'associated' with the Republicans. Can't you just say i started a book club focused on political education and that raised money for spouses of servicemen? You don't have to say it was a republican book club (unless it was actually called that - "the republicans book club"). Just call it by whatever name the book club has - genercise it.

Of course the other way to deal with this is to apply for schools that are located in strong Republican states

[SoCalMBA]

Most adcoms try their best at putting together diverse classes each year.....which means taking people from many difficult backgrounds. And one of the most under-represented groups can often be political professionals. They tend to stand out often in the crowd of finance/consulting/IT...

I would consider making in a focal of your application...and it seems like it may be a great essay topic as well.

Good Luck!