<p>How can I show colleges that I come from a low income background effectively and not like, come on too strongly to them? Would it be via essays?</p>
<p>Also, can that be an advantage in admissions?</p>
<p>If you want to show that you come from a low income background, the easiest way would probably be through your essays (besides the small family financial background section on most applications). Most strong personal statements focus on a character changing experience. You could write about how your low income background has affected who you are today. I'd develop a theme throughout your essay and support it with vivid, personal examples. They really just want to get to know you as a person--are you interesting, how will you impact the college campus, etc.</p>
<p>As for an advantage in admissions, it may or may not be depending on the school. Some schools aim for a more diverse socioeconomic college population and may seek more applicants from that background; others may completely disregard this. But I can tell you that you will have an advantage in applying for scholarships. I'd try applying for as many scholarships as possible. Good luck!</p>