Changing Perspectives in College Admissions

As we are all now aware, the supreme court recently ruled against affirmative action in the college admissions process. I have been facing many questions from students and parents from a variety of backgrounds about how this might change the college admissions process. Here is an interesting article from US News and World Report that addresses what some of these changes might include.

https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/applying/articles/how-does-affirmative-action-affect-college-admissions

Many colleges are working on updating policies due to this decision by the court, and many will also be taking a look at other areas such as legacy admissions, test-optional status, athletic recruiting, community outreach, and more.

As a college counselor, I want to reiterate that no matter what changes, colleges will continue to take a holistic approach to each student’s individual application. Essays are more important than ever, as they give the student the opportunity to tell their story. In addition to academic history, I advise that students use every opportunity that they can on that application (through essays, activities, recommendations, supplements, portfolios, and interviews - when allowed) to present a picture of who they are as an individual and as a student. Colleges want to know about you and your experiences, and are ultimately looking to build a class of students with diverse interests and backgrounds.