<p>I've heard various indriect responses about what hooks are.</p>
<p>Based on answers I've received, I'm wondering if the following 2 items are hooks:</p>
<p>1) My parents both were in the army. My mom was in 1 year. My father reitired after 20 years. Therefore, I was born outside of the US (Germany)</p>
<p>2) I will be the first person in my family to go to college.</p>
<p>Are both of these hooks?</p>
<p>Thanks</p>
<p>Uhh the first one isn't a hook at all imho. I was born outside the US also since my parents are both military (Naples, Italy). I don't think birthplace matters though.</p>
<p>However, I have also gone to over 10+ schools, and have still kept all A's. Being able to continue to get grades while living all over the US is a pretty good hook imo. You're a military kid also so I guess you're in a simliar situation?</p>
<p>First person in family is definitely a hook though.</p>
<p>I don't think either is really a hook, but definitely not hte first one. My understanding of "hook" is something stronger, like a recruited athlete, a URM, or a winner of a major national competition. But first-generation will definitely be at least a small advantage; being a "military kid," not so much.</p>
<p>Neither is a hook, which is something extremely strong such as being an All American athlete or prodigy musician. Being first generation college may be a small tip factor at some private schools. </p>
<p>The rest of the things you mention aren't going to be tip factors with admission.</p>