<p>I usually understand what makes a hook a hook, but in my case I really don't know.</p>
<p>Putting this as simple as possible; my parents came over to America from Europe with me when they were young. They both have crappy jobs (Walmart and truck driver) so in result I got a crappy job myself (grocery store) in order to pay for things like the ACT and AP tests. I work at my crappy to not only help my parents out, but to fulfill their dream of giving their children better lives.</p>
<p>… some colleges will consider first generation to attend college as a factor.</p>
<p>… more generally, the sacrifices that you and your family have had to go through could be a factor at many colleges that use a holistic admissions process.</p>
<p>So, this may be helpful to you – though this may be semantics, neither of these are generally considered to be ‘hooks’ on these boards.</p>
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<p>First gen to attend college is a tip at some schools. The OP is first gen to the US and they state that they are low SES, but they don’t actually say that they are first gen to college.</p>
<p>Well actually this is kind of funny, my great-grandmother was born in Pennsylvania in the 1920’s, even though my great-great-grandfather was born in Europe. I guess we somehow came back to Europe which makes me unable to be first gen in US. </p>
<p>And as for first gen to go to college, I am not sure how to take it because my parents grew up in a communist country and were forced to go to a technical school if they did not attend a post secondary institution.</p>
<p>I know, it’s very confusing…but that’s one way stand out :P</p>
<p>Reading the reply back, I easily see how it sounds like a ■■■■■ story, but to appeal to my ethos I can affirmatively tell you that what I speak is true…even though it’s just the internet…</p>
<p>I thought a bit more about your question – I didn’t think it was a ■■■■■-story, btw, but even if it was, it’s a good question.</p>
<p>So, here’s the thing – on CC, we use the word “hook” as if it has a set meaning. In fact, it doesn’t. It’s a short hand way of saying that certain colleges give preference to students with certain characteristics. Basically, if you meet these characteristics, the school may admit you with lower grades/scores than they normally look for; or with a top school, where >50% of the qualified candidates are denied anyway, you probably have a pretty good shot if you meet their standards.</p>
<p>Certain categories are generally considered to be hooks – Such as: Wealthy Family member who has generously contributed to the University (maybe there’s a building with the applicant’s last name on it); Under Represented Minorities; Recruited Athletes.</p>
<p>Others are generally considered helpful than the former. Legacy (parent or grandparent went to the school) but less generous contributor; Female STEM students; first-generation college student come to mind. Some people here call these hooks others don’t. However, these and other factors are helpful.</p>
<p>IMO, a ‘hooked’ student is one who has some characteristic that the University is actively looking for. However, as long as we realize that some factors are more important than others, and that every college weights these factors differently, we can call them hooks or not call them hooks, it really doesn’t make much of a difference.</p>
<p>In your case – I think you have an interesting story. Family and personal sacrifice to go to college shows character and dedication, both of which are good. As I said before, I don’t really think they are ‘hooks’ at most places, but they be positive factors in the application process.</p>