<p>Columbia is my first choice school and I'll be applying early decision this fall. With all the information I've received from the school it seems like Columbia is an incredibly diverse school. I grew up as Baptist Christian but have considered myself atheist for the past two years or so. My question is, will listing my religion (or lack of actually) as atheist hurt my chances at all? My parents are not happy with my decision not to accept God and swear up and down that saying I'm an atheist will hurt my chances. I feel that it could only help me however, as atheists in the bible-belt (I'm from SC) are not the most common thing. Can anyone shed some light on who's right here?</p>
<p>I highly doubt it would help you, but it definitely won’t hurt you.</p>
<p>I agree with boblade. Educated atheists in the bible belt are more common than you’d think (I’m one of them) but they tend to be more closeted about their beliefs.</p>
<p>When colleges say they are looking for diversity, I think that “atheists in the bible-belt” are not exactly what they mean. I agree with previous posters that mentioning that fact won’t hurt your chances, but ALSO won’t make your application stand out. You’re better off adding other things on your application that make you unique besides your religion.</p>