Hi,
On the CommonApp, for Pomona College, there’s a space that says, “If there are aspects of your identity that you feel are not captured elsewhere in this application, please provide that information below in no more than 50 words.” Would it be prudent for me to “come out” to the college in this section by saying, “I’m gay”? Would that help me in the admissions process or just make them frustrated or roll their eyes and think “Gosh, not another one”? I haven’t put any illusions to my sexuality anywhere else on the application. They would have no idea, unless I told them.
Thanks for your help
No, I don’t think you should include that.
I’m also gay and applying to Pomona but I did not include that because there’s no reason to. They don’t really care and it won’t help you get in. You’re not being dishonest or deceitful by not putting it – it just doesn’t matter.
@PomonaHopeful1 , two thoughts I can share. 1) Pomona is very safe and inclusive of the LGBTQ community. 2) I would not include in your app–as it is not likely relevant to your academic and/or artistic achievements.
I disagree with post #1 entirely. There is no advantage to be gained from stating you are gay. There are substantial numbers of gay students at the majority of colleges in the country these days. If anything, it will not help, because they will assume the only reason you included information like that with no context is so you could have an advantage.
The additional info section is for listing things that can’t be included elswhere on the app.
It will literally make no difference. I personally would not, it just is extraneous info. If you were a member or officer in any related groups (eg, Gay-Straight Alliance), I would include it in your activities, though. But it is pretty ho-hum at Pomona.
There probably have always been a large group of gay students regardless of the era. Now they are openly gay and largely accepted.
If your heart is excited about telling the world that you’re gay, then go for it. I know I said “don’t” earlier, but really it’s not going to hurt you either, I don’t think. You can say happily: I’m out and proud! or whatever your emotion may be. Happiness and confidence is contagious. It’s really what’s in your heart. Let that shine through.
Other worldly wisdom dictates: If you have any doubts about including information,then leave it out. This is how you may want to proceed as you move forward in other areas.
Really it’s up to you whether you include it or not.
Ask yourself whether a straight kid would note that they are straight. 
I believe, it would be seen as unnecessary information rather than advantageous.
Thank you all so much; I’ve decided not to include it.