Admissions Would it be a bad idea to tell an REU that they are my only option?

[sequoiasprout]

Basically what it says on the tin, due to a family situation requiring me to be within driving distance to my house, there is only one REU program I could viably apply to for this summer. Should I tell them this in my personal statement? I was thinking of saying something like ((NOT A FINAL DRAFT))
"Another reason I am applying to the *School* REU specifically is location, I need to be able to go home on weekends this summer due to a family situation, and *School* is the only university within reasonable commuting distance that offers the programs I am looking for. "
Is this okay? Should I be less explicit? I also welcome suggestions on how to phrase "family situation" in a less dramatic or personal way because it definitely sounds weird right now.

 

[DaveE]

Yes, it's a bad idea. Sell yourself with the positive stuff. Don't make their decision any harder or more complex than necessary. After you get in you can discuss the non-academic stuff.

 

[CrysPhys]

I agree that it would be a bad idea. You need to sell yourself on merit, not sympathy. It also might rebound if committee members get the impression, "If he had the option, he would prefer to go elsewhere. The only reason he wants to come here is because he's stuck here."