Amherst College "Do you identify as a member of the LGBTQ+ community?"" question

Colleges and Universities A-Z Amherst College
1

Hi CC,
On my Amherst College application I noticed there is a question that asks

“Do you identify as a member of the LGBTQ+ community?”

If you say yes, they ask you what your affiliation is.

I am a part of the LGBTQ+ community but I was not expecting to have to put that on my college application. I can say “prefer not to respond,” but would it either hurt or benefit me to tell them my identity? What if they get more openly LGBTQ+ applicants this year due to increasing acceptance of that identity and the college admissions decides to count it negatively?

Sorry, I’m not sure anyone will actually have an answer to this. But if you’re applying or applied or know someone who’s done one of those things, I’d love the insight. Thanks!

2

@flute6
You should respond in the affirmative. It’s an institutional goal of Amherst to attract more LGBTQ+ students. You can read about it in their diversity plan on the website. Best of luck.

3

This should remain a private matter if the applicant is uncomfortable with the question.

4

You will not get denied based on how you answer this. It isn’t a trick question. As with any application question, they are seeking to know you better. You get to decide what feels right for you. Don’t feel that sharing more than you are comfortable with will get you accepted. You do you!