The Admissions Process to Top Colleges: A Quest for Fairness and Diversity

Most colleges that receive a vast number of applications seek to maintain a balanced class, which often includes diversity in ethnicity, race, socioeconomic status, and other factors. As a result, a college may not admit all applicants from a single ethnic or racial group, even if they have prepared a comprehensive and robust application.

Striving for Diversity

While most colleges look for a certain level of skillset and academic achievement, they may prioritize applicants from different backgrounds if their ethnic or racial group is overrepresented. This can mean that a student ranked 450th in their group may be admitted in favor of a student ranked lower but from a different background, with the goal of fostering diversity in the classroom.

Is this fair? Opinions vary. Many colleges strive to prepare students for the diverse world they will encounter as adults. Living and learning in a diverse environment can be incredibly valuable, as it helps students navigate different cultures and expectations. For those who come from homogenous communities, attending a diverse college can offer a transformative and enriching experience.

Perceptions and Realities

Many in the community believe that there are quotas based on ethnicity in college admissions. Some even joke that being a certain race can provide an easier path to admission. However, the reality is more complex. The advantage often lies with WASPs (White Anglo-Saxon Protestants), particularly those from wealthy families with a history of university attendance. These students, often educated at prestigious private high schools like Phillips Andover Academy, can bypass much of the competitive process.

Consider the scenario of an "OK but so-so" student at Phillips Andover Academy, where "Daddy" and "Grandpa" are graduates of the institution. If this student applies to a prestigious university, they may be admitted without even completing a full application process. This "legacy admissions" practice means that several hundred, or even more, applicants are effectively bypassed. Moreover, their name might even be George W. Bush, highlighting the privilege and opportunity that can come with a family's name and history.

Challenges of Fairness and Diversity

The quest for fairness and diversity in college admissions is multifaceted. While colleges strive to create balanced and diverse classes, the perception of fairness can vary widely. Critics argue that the system can be biased towards certain groups, while proponents defend the value of diversity in education. The crucial question remains: do colleges prioritize skillsets and merit, or do they lean towards quotas and other non-merit-based factors?

In the end, the admissions process is a delicate balance between fairness, merit, and diversity. As the world becomes more interconnected, the challenge of creating a truly diverse and inclusive college environment remains as relevant as ever. The quest for fairness in the admissions process is ongoing, and it requires continuous dialogue, reflection, and reform.