Is being a regional finalist in the Siemens Westinghouse Competition considered a major “hook”? My friend told me it wasn’t but I wanted a second opinion…thanks! 
<p>I'm sorry to say it, but your friend is very misinformed. 1. Colleges like research. 2. Colleges like awards. Therefore, colleges like even more, research awards. Colleges like Siemens since its one of the senior year contests that get in in time for apps (as opposed to Intel). So, yes it is a major hook.</p>
<p>It's not a hook in the traditional sense (legacy, URM, athlete) but it's definitely a nice bauble on your application and will help you stand out except, maybe, at places like Caltech where everyone and their sister will have stuff like that.</p>
<p>It's not as good as being a national finalist, but much better than a poke in the eye with a pointed stick.</p>