COLLEGE ADMISSIONS CHALLENGE! (PART II)
Background: This challenge is inspired by the landmark Supreme Court decision in 2023, which effectively ended the use of race as a factor in college admissions. The ruling was a pivotal moment in the ongoing debate about fairness, equity, and inclusion in higher education.
The case centered around challenges to affirmative action policies at Harvard University and the University of North Carolina. Opponents of these policies argued that using race in admissions discriminated against certain groups, while supporters maintained that it was necessary to promote diversity and address historical inequities. The Court’s decision has forced colleges to reexamine how they evaluate applicants, sparking conversations about how to ensure fairness without explicitly considering race.
This challenge invites you to step into the role of a college admissions advisor. You’ll review applications from eight fictional students and select the three you believe are most deserving of enrollment at "BFR University."
In this exercise, you will be provided with additional details about each applicant, including their race, gender, location, and a recommendation letter to help inform your decision-making process. Below are the GPA and SAT requirements for the university:
Average GPA ~ 3.5
Average SAT Score ~ 1400
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Identity: Black Man
Location: Flint, Michigan
GPA: 3.4
SAT Score: 1490
Accomplishments/Merit: National Science Olympiad winner, Counselor at a non-profit tutoring service for underprivileged children
Essay Summary:
Discussed overcoming the challenges of living in a shelter
Emphasized the importance of community service
Highlighted personal growth through volunteer work
Recommendation:
"Student A consistently shows outstanding academic abilities and a profound dedication to community service. His perseverance in overcoming personal challenges and commitment to helping others make him an exemplary candidate. With a strong work ethic and leadership qualities, Student A is well-prepared to succeed in any endeavor." - Principal
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Identity: Latino Man
Location: Memphis, Tennessee
GPA: 3.3
SAT Score: 1500
Accomplishments/Merit: Captain of varsity wrestling team, Scholar/Athlete Recipient
Essay Summary:
Examined the impact of policing in marginalized communities
Shared firsthand experiences and observations
Emphasized the need for justice and reform in law enforcement practices
Recommendation: "Student B is an exceptional student-athlete who excels academically and athletically. As captain of the varsity wrestling team, he demonstrates leadership and a strong sense of responsibility. His insightful essays on policing and his advocacy for justice highlight his commitment to equity and reform. Student B's drive and compassion will enable him to make significant contributions in the future." - Wrestling Coach
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Identity: Woman (Race Not Disclosed)
Location: Newton, Massachusetts
GPA: 3.5
SAT Score: 1400
Accomplishments/Merit: Lead soloist in a regional gospel choir competition, Organized and led a community youth choir
Essay Summary:
Discussed the hypersexualization of women in hip hop
Analyzed the impact of these portrayals on societal views & women’s self-perception
Highlighted the importance of positive representation and empowerment for women and children
Recommendation: "Student C is a talented and dedicated individual with a passion for music and social justice. Her leadership in organizing a community youth choir and her analysis of social issues showcase her insight and commitment. Student C's dedication to positive representation and empowerment makes her a valuable member of any community." - Music Teacher
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Identity: Jewish Woman
Location: Williamsburg, Brooklyn
GPA: 3.7
SAT Score: 1570
Accomplishments/Merit: Debate team captain, Won state-level debate competitions
Essay Summary:
Centered around the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict
Critically examined the US involvement and its impact on the region’s stability
Discussed the humanitarian consequences of the conflict and the need for a balanced approach that respects human rights and seeks lasting peace
Recommendation: "Student D is a highly intellectual and articulate student who excels in debate and critical analysis. Her leadership as debate team captain and her thoughtful examination of complex geopolitical issues demonstrate her analytical skills and global awareness. Student D's balanced approach to sensitive topics makes her an outstanding candidate for any academic community." - Debate Coach
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Identity: White Man
Location: Bronx, New York
GPA: 3.6
SAT Score: 1490
Accomplishments/Merit: Developed Machine Learning code for Fortune 500 Company
Essay Summary:
Described how a cybersecurity attack affected his family, sparking his interest in the field
Shared experiences working on cybersecurity projects during his internship
Discussed the future of cybersecurity and its crucial role in protecting individuals’ data and privacy in an increasingly digital world
Recommendation: "Student E exhibits remarkable skills in computer science and cybersecurity. His initiative in developing machine learning code for a major corporation highlights his technical expertise and innovative mindset. As a dedicated and purposeful student, Student E is well-equipped for any challenging program. His ability to combine technical knowledge with practical applications is truly commendable." - Computer Science Teacher
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Identity: White Woman
Location: Dublin, California
GPA: 3.5
SAT Score: 1450
Accomplishments/Merit: Award-winning science fair project on renewable energy, Led a community initiative to promote environmental sustainability
Essay Summary:
Reflected on the pressure of being a legacy student and upholding family expectations
Shared an emotional story about bonding with a young girl at the homeless shelter, who reminded her of her younger sister
Described how this experience deepened her empathy and commitment to social justice
Recommendation: "Student F is a committed and empathetic individual who excels academically and in extracurricular activities. Her award-winning science fair project and leadership in environmental sustainability showcase her dedication to impactful causes. Student F's ability to connect with others and her empathy, demonstrated through her volunteer work, make her an excellent candidate for any community." - Science Teacher
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Identity: White Trans-Woman
Location: Atlanta, Georgia
GPA: 4.0
SAT Score: 1300
Accomplishments/Merit: Spoken word poet, Founded an LGBTQ+ support group at their high school
Essay Summary:
Reflected on embracing their identity
Shared challenges of coming out and transitioning
Emphasized the need for representation and support for LGBTQ+ individuals, driving their passion for creating inclusive environments
Recommendation:
"Student G demonstrates remarkable courage and leadership. Her work as a spoken word poet and founder of an LGBTQ+ support group highlights her commitment to advocacy and inclusivity. Academically excellent and socially conscious, Student G's resilience and empathy are outstanding qualities that will serve her well in any academic or professional setting." - School Counselor
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Identity: Asian Woman
Location: Beijing, China
GPA: 3.1
SAT Score: 1600
Accomplishments/Merit: Founded and led a school drama club
Essay Summary:
Discussed personal experiences with immigration and its impact on their family
Explored the challenges and opportunities faced as an immigrant
Highlighted how these experiences shaped their identity and inspired them to use theater as a platform for storytelling and advocacy
Recommendation:
"Student H is an exceptional student with a passion for the arts and a deep understanding of social issues. Her leadership in founding the school drama club and her dedication to using theater for advocacy showcase her creativity and commitment to positive change. Student H's personal experiences with immigration provide her with a unique perspective that enriches our school community. She is resilient and talented, poised to make significant contributions wherever she goes." - Drama Teacher
