Should I Put My Race on the Common App? The Great College Admission Race Debate
So, you’re staring at the Common App, and there it is: the dreaded race and ethnicity question. You’re probably thinking, “Do I really need to answer this?” And trust me, you’re not alone. This question has been swirling around college admissions like a bad batch of cafeteria pizza, leaving everyone confused and slightly nauseous.
The TL;DR: The race and ethnicity questions on the Common App are completely optional. You can choose to fill it out, you can choose not to, and nobody’s going to judge you for either decision. It’s like that awkward friend at the party who insists on dancing even though they have two left feet. It’s not illegal, it’s just a little…uncomfortable.
But here’s the thing: it’s not about the college. The Common App specifically states they don’t make admissions decisions. They’re just the delivery guy for your college applications. So, who’s really making this big fuss about race?
Enter the Supreme Court and their oh-so-dramatic ruling. They declared that colleges can’t use race as a primary factor in admissions. But here’s where things get a little spicy. It’s not that colleges are suddenly colorblind. They’ve always been looking for students who bring something unique to the table, a diverse background, a different perspective. Think of it as a college application potluck, and nobody wants to show up with the same boring potato salad.
So, does your race matter in college admissions? Technically, no. The Supreme Court says race can’t be the deciding factor. But is it completely irrelevant? Well, that’s a bit more complicated. Imagine you’re an admissions officer, and you have two equally qualified students. One has a background story that screams “diversity” and “unique perspective,” and the other is a blank slate. Who do you think might have a slight edge?
But here’s the real question: Why are we even having this discussion? Should your race be a defining factor in your application? Should it be the first thing that comes to mind when you’re applying to college? Why not let your accomplishments, your passion, your personality shine through instead?
Here’s the truth: your race is just one piece of the puzzle. It’s not the entire picture. If you’re worried about how your race will affect your application, focus on the things you can control:
- Ace those classes: Your grades are a big deal. Show those colleges you’re a serious student who knows how to hustle.
- Write killer essays: Use your essays to tell your story, to show your unique voice, to highlight the things that make you, you.
- Get involved: Show those colleges you’re not just a bookworm, you’re a well-rounded individual with interests and passions.
- Ask for strong recommendations: Get people who know you well to vouch for your character, your work ethic, your potential.
And remember: You are more than your race. You are your experiences, your dreams, your aspirations. Let those shine through, and let your race be just a small part of the beautiful mosaic that is you.
So, should you put your race on the Common App? The answer is simple: It’s totally up to you. If you feel it’s important, if it’s a part of your story that you want to share, then go for it. But if you’re not comfortable with it, if it feels like a box to be checked, then don’t. It really is your choice.
And remember: There’s no right or wrong answer. It’s about you, your story, and what you want to share. So, breathe, relax, and know that you’ve got this. College admissions is a marathon, not a sprint, and you’re already off to a great start.
Need more help navigating the college admissions maze? Check out the JobLoving community! We’ve got all the tips, tricks, and insights you need to make this whole process a little less stressful.