Hi, if anyone could clarify what exactly a hook is that would be fantastic. Is being low-income a hook? Is having a disabled parent a hook? Is attending a low-performing high school a hook? I’m just not sure. Thanks in advance.
Hooks:
URM-under-represented minority
Geography-you’re from Idaho or Montana or West Virginia or Hawaii–some under-represented area
Outstanding athlete, musician, etc.–not just good, award-winning
OR you’re a cello player and the school just graduated 3 of them so the orchestra is short
You founded some kind of volunteerism or public service activity that helped others and gained notoriety
You’re the son or daughter of a famous person
You have a sibling, parent, or grandparent who attended the school
Your family made a substantial financial donation to the school (enough to build something!)
You’re a faculty kid or a faculty kid of a neighboring school.
A hook is something that makes you highly desirable to the school. For example if you or your parents are famous, the school will get publicity. If your parents are rich, the school will get money. URM and geography are hooks because the school wants a diverse student body. Its all about what benefits they will get from admitting you.