Providing Unrequired Information

<p>College applications are always asking about information such as your parents schooling, degree, and employment information. A lot of time, I see that it is optional.</p>

<p>Is it good, bad, or neutral to put such information down? My dad tells me that if it's not required, don't put it down. What should I do?</p>

<p>Joeshie,
i think it is nosey of the colleges. I guess some are seeing if you are a first generation person in your family going to college. that scores points for you at some schools. Others migh be looking at where your parents work and trying to figure out if they can pay the full amount, that scores points too at some schools. If your Mom or Dad doesnt work, a suitable answer is unemployed. </p>

<p>Dont know if it is a positive or negative to leave it blank. It may depend on the school and/or the person reading your app? Sorry I dont have a definitive answer for you.</p>