Hi, I am struggling to find how to reflect my LGBTQ status in the common app. I see the question: he/his, she/her, they/them. But I am trying to find where else and how I would reflect my status and also explain it. I’m a reserved person.
Any guidance would be appreciated! Thank you
There is no specific question. You can mention it in one of your essays, even if that isn’t what the essay is mostly about, there should be a way to include a reference.
There is no question in the Common Application, however, some (possibly many but there’s no way for me to know that) of the school-specific questions will either ask about this or give you the opportunity to include that information should you choose to.
My question would be why are you wanting to include your identity on the application? If it’s important to you in terms of what you’ll bring to the campus community, you can weave it into an essay.
If it’s more for housing concerns, more and more schools have inclusive housing and have those questions on their housing questionnaires after you’ve been accepted.
If you’ve been active in a GSA or similar at your school you can include that in your activities. My D22 is LGBTQ and I don’t think she mentioned it anywhere in her apps.
My d isn’t directly addressing but will likely come through in describing some of her interests. OP, not sure where you are from but you may be happy and relieved to hear that in vast majority of colleges being LGBTQI won’t be a big deal at all, there will be tons of others and a lively queer scene. Admissions won’t care at all either way.
Are you wanting to report demographic data - you’ll likely have the chance - or clubs you are interested in.
If you think it’s going to make you stand out and give you an advantage - think again. It’s overly used.
If you have a compelling story, share it - but it’s got to be off the charts compelling because at this point essays related to LGBTQ are a dime a dozen. If you have a club, that’s great to list in your activities.
Good luck.
First off… Be yourself. My daughter never mentioned anything on her application. Really no need to. Being Lgbtq is not as big a deal as it used to be and I am just saying this in the most positive way. As stated most schools have clubs /organizations for this if you want to join. If you have a more specific reason please explain so we can all assist.
There are often supplemental questions where you can write about whatever you want. Some topics I’ve seen recently are community, activities/ecs, and thoughts on the future. If your lgbtq identity is an important part of who you are, you’ll find many opportunities to reflect on it.