I was surprised but not surprised when a very successful alumnus who had gone to an Old Ivy told me that 1/4 of his alma mater’s freshman seats each year are now “bought” (his word, not mine). I was surprised but not surprised when Harvard College admissions data released during a lawsuit showed that most
Category: College
To Grieve
Before the Covid-19 shut down, I offered this to my son: “How about dinner for 17 tonight or tomorrow?” As the reality of the coronavirus set in, I realized that his college a cappella group, which is very close, would be facing rushed goodbyes to each other and, in particular, to the seniors. The college
Rick Singer and the New ‘Adversity Score’
Two recent news items caught my eye. First, crooked admissions advisor Rick Singer not only bribed coaches and faked sports credentials, he also encouraged clients’ kids, who are white, to apply as African-Americans or Hispanic-Americans (in one case, the kid ticked off both boxes!). Article here. Second, the College Board has crafted an “Adversity Score”
Yale for Sale?
I’m out of town this week for spring break, but wanted to write about the college admissions scandal that was announced yesterday. It is a very sad affair, but I am not surprised. When both major and niche sports comprise a clear path into very selective colleges (unlike in Europe), there is room for abuse.
Another College Admissions Cycle
Social media is full of posts from those recently admitted to colleges’ early admissions programs. Smiles, proud parents and achievements justly-deserved. But, there’s a dark side to it all. Recently, someone told me about another suicide attempt at Harvard College. It’s an open secret that colleges’ mental health service offerings cannot keep up with demand.
Commencement and a Note to My Younger Self
I left with plenty of time for a breakfast meeting in Harvard Square. Traffic was really bad, more so than usual. The breakfast place was loaded with people. I then realized it was Harvard Commencement, with today being Class Day. Thankfully, I arrived with time to spare. I sat there and observed all the students