<p>I'm not sure if "hooks" is the proper name for it, but I do mean things like URM, female in STEM, poor, first generation, etc.</p>
<p>Anyone have an idea of how much they matter in the admissions process?</p>
<p>I think if it’s clear that you’ve had to overcome significant obstacles to get to where you are, and this uniquely distinguishes you from other applicants who have similar achievements but with fewer challenges, then it can help your application. But it’s a qualitative process, not a quantitative one; there is no point system where you are assigned extra points for being a URM etc.</p>
<p>Your question made me think of this blog post by Chris LaBounty: [Think</a> About This | MIT Admissions](<a href=“http://mitadmissions.org/blogs/entry/think-about-this]Think”>Think About This | MIT Admissions)
See point #4 specifically (although the whole thing is worth a read.)</p>
<p>What you listed helps you get your foot a little farther in the door than other people. What really opens the door is what you have done with what you have been given (your talent and brains).</p>