Giving up one's "identity" so that Gora sahabs will treat you better or look more fondly upon you is the last thing one should take into consideration when going to or applying to universities or jobs in the West !
Come on if you've got to give up your identity and your religious beliefs just to get your foot through the door , its not worth the effort !
I for one would NEVER give up my identity just to "fit in" or get ahead in a society .
Could not give a damn what they think ...
You judge me by my merits and qualifications not by the way I dress !
Very well said Sheyn.