Hi. I’m trans and not out to my parents - tried, but they were terrible about it. I want to include my preferred name on the application. It’s not just a nickname and it’s very different than my birth name. I’m worried I’ll get letters in the mail or messages sent to my parents or anything like that with my preferred name on it. They can’t know, but I want it to be on there so I don’t need to constantly remind and tell every professor and person I meet to have to call me that individually.
So, I guess I want to know how the name will be used. Especially in the beginning process of applying and receiving information from them. Any help is appreciated
I can’t offer any specific advice, but I do know that it is very important that the official name on your application matches the name on your school transcript and the name on your standardized testing. This is so everything can match up on the college’s side since the info is coming from 3 different sources (you, school, testing agency).
The common app asks gender, but also has a freeform text section below that notes “If you would like the opportunity, we invite you to share more about your gender identity below”. There is also a field that says “Preferred name (nickname)”. You mention that your preferred name is not just a nickname, but I suppose the common app is trying to cover many different needs so the question is generic. I am not sure whether the preferred name field translates into mail that is sent to you.
I’d stick with your given name for now on paperwork and testing. When you get to college, you can tell roommates/friends/profs/etc your preferred name. Once you are out of college and financially independent of your parents, you can legally change it if you want to.
@g8non - I am sorry that your parents are not on board with your transition. I agree with @intparent that under the circumstances, you are best off to apply under your legal name and change your name as you progress and gain more independence.
