Hi. I’m considering applying to some ivies as well as a lot of other schools this fall, and I was wondering if I should include any of my financial information. I work about 20-25 hours a week during school and last year my parents income was only $2000 more than mine; so basically I have to pay for pretty much everything (even some bills sometime). I’ve had a really rough personal/family life in the past 2 years (I can give details if you want…). But anyhow, should I include this or mention it in interviews, or just leave it out. Thanks
<p>Definitely mention it. I have heard that a full time job during school, or supporting your family with your job is very well looked upon by adcoms. Also colleges often look at your stats in the context of your socioeconomic status. Ie they will be more forgiving of low test scores if you are poorer.</p>
<p>hey guitarguy229, I think that you should mention the hardships of your life in your essays -- during the interview talk about the school and mention about your situation only if necessary -- don't complain, instead show how the circumstances of your life affected your personality, goals, ambition, etc. I think that you should use your situation as a hook, but not the only thing that could interest a particular college -- don't think that your situation alone will get you into an ivy league but know that it will without a doubt set you apart from the rest of the applicants who are mostly well off financially.<br>
If you have good grades and high scores I would say you are a great candidate for any school.
Good Luck.
~SS</p>
<p>I would make sure to mention it somewhere. If you can write a good essay that talks about it without coming off sounding whiny, do that.
Last year's common app had a sort of short essay question asking about your most important activity. If they still have that, you could write about your job and supporting your family. I wouldn't hesitate to discuss it in interviews, but only if it fits in with what you are talking about. I probably wouldn't bring it up except in the context of asking about financial aid and financing options. Another option would be to write an extra essay, of whatever length, that discusses your family situation and send it to those schools that accept extra materials. </p>
<p>If you aren't very comfortable talking/writing about it, you could ask your counselor or one of the teachers to mention it in the recommendations, depending how well you know them.</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>