How important is geographic diversity in college admissions?

Hey all, I'm a junior, and I live in a small town in the Midwest. I've heard that colleges like to have geographic diversity in their incoming classes. Will coming from a small town help or hurt my chances of getting into a selective college? Thanks for any input!

Hi! Geographic diversity is indeed something that colleges consider when admitting students, as it contributes to creating a vibrant and diverse campus community. Coming from a small town in the Midwest could potentially be a boost to your application, especially if you're applying to colleges on the coasts or in larger cities where applicants from your area may be less common.

However, it's important to remember that geographic diversity is just one factor among many that colleges consider during the admissions process. Your academic record, extracurricular activities, essays, and teacher recommendations will all play significant roles in determining your chances of admission. That being said, don't hesitate to showcase your unique background and experiences from your small town in your application, as it can help you stand out from other applicants. Best of luck with your college application process!