The Supreme Court and Holistic Admissions: What's Next in College Admissions?
By: Chris Jonas
24/7 College Admissions Coach
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The Supreme Court, Affirmative Action, and Holistic Admissions: What's Next in College Admissions?
As an experienced college admissions counselor and coach, I have always encouraged students to strive for excellence, diversity, and authenticity. However, the recent Supreme Court decision to strike down affirmative action in college admissions may significantly change the landscape of the college admissions process. Although it's too early to map out the precise repercussions, several potential implications have been raised, which could significantly impact applicants, particularly those from underrepresented groups.
Before I delve into these implications, I must clarify what the decision implies. The verdict does not explicitly prohibit colleges from considering race in admissions. Instead, it makes it legally challenging for institutions to do so. This, in turn, could dramatically influence the factors colleges prioritize when admitting students.
Legacy Admissions and Athletics:
One of the most notable shifts is the possible increased focus on legacy admissions and athletic recruitment. Without race, colleges might lean more heavily on these aspects to shape their incoming classes. This tilt could lead to a decrease in students from underrepresented groups at elite colleges. Legacy admissions often favor families with access to higher education for generations, typically excluding marginalized communities. Similarly, athletic recruitment can be biased towards wealthier families who can afford the resources necessary for their children to excel in sports.
College Essays and Extracurriculars:
Moreover, we might see a more significant emphasis on personal essays and extracurricular activities. These components allow colleges to get to know applicants and assess their merits. But therein lies a challenge: not all students have the same access to resources and opportunities. Many students from underrepresented groups may find competing more difficult, given the disparities in availability and accessibility to enrichment programs, writing help, and more.
Holistic Admissions and the Unknown:
The third potential implication of the Supreme Court's decision is an increased use of holistic review. This admissions process considers various factors such as grades, test scores, extracurricular activities, and personal essays. While the holistic review is already employed by many colleges, it may become even more prevalent in light of this recent decision. In principle, a holistic approach seems equitable—it paints a broader picture of the applicant beyond just academics. However, it's essential to ensure that this review truly embraces diversity and gives equal weight to varied experiences.
How colleges adapt to the Supreme Court's decision will likely depend on the institution. Some colleges might be more inclined to continue considering race in admissions, while others may drift away from it. It's also plausible that innovative strategies will emerge to consider race indirectly in ways not explicitly prohibited by the court's decision.
What we're witnessing is a pivotal moment in college admissions. We must remember, though, that the ultimate goal should remain to ensure that all students, regardless of their background, have equal access to higher education. Despite the Supreme Court's ruling, colleges should strive to maintain a diverse student body, recognizing that diversity extends beyond race and includes a range of socio-economic backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.
As we look ahead, there are things you, as students, can do. First, understand that your story matters. Use your personal essays to articulate your unique experiences and how they have shaped you. Second, make the most of your academic and extracurricular opportunities. If resources are scarce, be creative. Leadership isn't confined to school clubs—it can be demonstrated in your family, community, or job.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, while the Supreme Court's decision might bring about challenges, it also offers opportunities for students to showcase their resilience, creativity, and individuality. As an admissions counselor and coach, I remain committed to guiding all students through this evolving landscape, ensuring that their unique voices are heard and their strengths are recognized, no matter what changes may come in college admissions. Together, we can navigate these changes and navigate these uncharted waters.
The Supreme Court’s decision indeed poses new challenges and uncertainties. But, as I always remind my students, challenges can be the best catalysts for growth and innovation. Let us embrace this moment as an opportunity—for colleges to devise more inclusive admissions practices and for students to showcase their individuality and potential in new and creative ways.
As an admissions counselor and coach, I am here for you, ready to guide you through this evolving landscape. Let's continue to strive for an admissions process that appreciates each student's unique story, celebrates diversity, and fosters inclusivity. Together, we can navigate these changes and continue our shared mission: to provide equal access to education for all.
Let's not let this decision deter us. Instead, let's embrace it as a challenge—to continue striving for an inclusive, diverse, and equitable higher education system that recognizes the potential in every student.
Things to Ponder:
How can you better showcase your or teen’s unique experiences and merits in your personal essays and extracurricular activities, given the heightened emphasis these may receive in the wake of the Supreme Court's decision?
Did you know the earlier you start the college application process, the easier it is? If you are ready to start thinking about the college application process, set up a free strategy call with one of our 24/7 College Admissions specialists and learn everything you need to create a successful college application plan for yourself or your teen.
