<p>i know that can be a turnoff for some schools. they can't really be need-blind if they know that money is and always has been tight for my family. on the other hand, i feel like mentioning those financial issues is really integral to telling my story and explaining my background. what should i do?</p>
<p>It depends on if it’s relevant to the rest of your story and how you mention it. </p>
<p>“Although we were considered low-income and relied heavily on government assistance, my family was wealthy in other ways” and then don’t mention it again. </p>
<p>If you entire essay is about finances, start over.</p>
<p>it’s not, but i think i still need to change it. thanks for the help!</p>
<p>There is nothing wrong with talking about hardship circumstances if they had an effect on you and it is relevant to your essay. Colleges are interested in students who thrived despite challenges. I wouldn’t put it in gratuitously, like the above example. It is pointless to second guess if the university is truly as need blind as they say.</p>
<p>Thanks. I wrote a completely new essay and minimized the emphasis on financial issues, and I think it’s better. And yeah, I guess you’re right.</p>