Should You Avoid Gender on the Common App? (Spoiler Alert: It’s Complicated)
The Common App, that glorious beast of a college application platform, is notorious for its ability to both streamline and complicate the college admissions process. It asks you everything from your GPA to your extracurricular activities, and somewhere in between, it pops the question: “What’s your gender?”
Now, before you start panicking and frantically Googling “How to avoid gender on the Common App,” let’s take a deep breath and break this down.
The Common App’s Gender Question: A Dance with Identity
The Common App does not force you to answer the gender question. It’s optional. But let’s be honest, it’s a question that can make you feel like you’re walking on eggshells. You’re already stressed about standardized tests, essays, and making sure your extracurriculars are impressive enough to impress a college admissions officer. Do you really want to add the pressure of figuring out how to define your gender on a form?
The Common App offers a range of options, including “female,” “male,” “nonbinary,” and “add another gender.” You can even choose more than one gender. It’s a step in the right direction towards inclusivity, but it can still feel like a minefield for some students.
The Question of Impact: Does Gender Affect College Acceptance?
The short answer? It’s complicated.
On the one hand, colleges aren’t supposed to discriminate based on gender. Title IX, that federal law passed in 1972, enforces that male and female students have equal opportunities in education.
On the other hand, colleges have their own admissions strategies. They often aim to create a diverse student body, which might include maintaining a certain gender balance or attracting students from specific geographic areas.
So what does this mean for you?
It’s unlikely that your gender identity alone will be the deciding factor in your college acceptance. But it’s also impossible to deny that colleges are not immune to unconscious bias.
The Art of Being Authentic: Should You Disclose Your Gender Identity?
Here’s where things get a little philosophical. It boils down to this:
- Should you disclose your gender identity if it’s important to you? Absolutely! It’s your story, and you have the right to tell it. Colleges value authenticity, and sharing your true self can help you connect with the right school.
- Should you disclose your gender identity if you’re unsure about how it might be perceived? This is a more tricky question. There’s no right or wrong answer.
Here’s what I recommend:
- Do your research: Some colleges actively promote inclusivity and diversity. They might have specific initiatives or resources for LGBTQ+ students. Choose schools that resonate with your values.
- Think about your comfort level: If you’re not comfortable disclosing your gender identity, don’t feel pressured. You have the right to privacy.
- Trust your instincts: If you feel strongly about sharing your gender identity, go for it! If you’re not sure, it’s okay to leave it blank.
The Common App and the Future of Inclusivity
The Common App is constantly evolving to reflect the changing demographics and needs of its users. By providing more gender options, it’s taking steps towards inclusivity and recognition of diverse identities.
The goal is to create a college application process that’s welcoming and accessible to everyone. It’s a work in progress, but it’s a step in the right direction.
The Bottom Line: It’s Your Choice
Ultimately, the decision of whether to disclose your gender identity on the Common App is entirely up to you. There’s no right or wrong answer.
The most important thing is to be true to yourself and choose what feels right for you. If you’re feeling lost in the maze of gender identity and college applications, don’t hesitate to reach out for support.
Need More Help Navigating the Common App or Gender Identity?
If you’re still feeling confused or overwhelmed, don’t fret! We’re here to help. The JobLoving community is a wealth of resources and support for students navigating the college application process. Connect with us, and we’ll help you find the answers you need.
Just remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Take a deep breath, be yourself, and remember that you’re one step closer to your dream college.