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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Who Gets In and Why summary
Jeffrey Selingo
Brief summary
Who Gets In and Why by Jeffrey Selingo is a thought-provoking exploration of the college admissions process. It delves into the factors that truly matter and offers valuable insights for students, parents, and educators.
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Who Gets In and Why
Summary of key ideas
Understanding the College Admissions Process
In Who Gets In and Why by Jeffrey Selingo, we embark on a comprehensive journey through the college admissions process. Selingo, a higher education expert, begins by shedding light on the complexity of the process, emphasizing that it's not just about having good grades and test scores. Instead, he argues that admissions officers consider a wide range of factors, including extracurricular activities, essays, and the student's personal background.
Selingo also delves into the role of the Common Application, a standardized form used by hundreds of colleges and universities. He explains how this system has streamlined the application process but has also led to an increase in the number of applications per student, making the competition even fiercer.
The Admissions Office's Perspective
Next, Selingo takes us behind the scenes of the admissions office. He offers an insider's perspective on how applications are reviewed and decisions are made. He highlights the various strategies colleges employ to shape their incoming classes, including early decision, legacy preferences, and the use of waitlists. Selingo also discusses the impact of rankings and how colleges often game the system to improve their position.
Furthermore, the author emphasizes the importance of demonstrated interest, revealing that colleges are more likely to admit students who have shown genuine interest in attending their institution. This can be demonstrated through campus visits, interviews, and other forms of engagement.
The Role of Money and Diversity
Selingo then turns our attention to the role of money and diversity in the admissions process. He explains how colleges use financial aid to attract students and shape their incoming classes. He also discusses the controversial practice of "need-aware" admissions, where a student's financial need can influence their acceptance.
Regarding diversity, Selingo argues that colleges strive for a mix of students from different backgrounds, not only for ethical reasons but also to create a richer learning environment. He explores the various ways colleges promote diversity, such as through affirmative action and recruitment efforts targeting underrepresented groups.
The Student's Perspective
Shifting gears, Selingo presents the student's perspective, offering advice on how to navigate the admissions process successfully. He encourages students to focus on finding the right fit rather than fixating on prestige. This means considering factors such as location, campus culture, and academic programs.
Selingo also stresses the importance of standing out in the application pool. He advises students to develop a unique personal narrative and pursue their passions outside the classroom. Additionally, he recommends that students take full advantage of the resources available to them, such as college counselors and financial aid opportunities.
Conclusion: A Nuanced View of College Admissions
In conclusion, Who Gets In and Why provides a nuanced view of the college admissions process. Selingo acknowledges the challenges and inequalities inherent in the system while also recognizing the efforts colleges make to create diverse and vibrant communities. He ultimately encourages students to approach the process with an open mind, focusing on finding the right fit and making the most of their college experience.
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What is Who Gets In and Why about?
Who Gets In and Why by Jeffrey Selingo explores the complex and often opaque college admissions process in the United States. Drawing on interviews with admissions officers, students, and experts, the book delves into the various factors that influence who gets accepted into top universities and why. Selingo also offers insights and potential reforms to make the system fairer and more transparent.
Who Gets In and Why Review
Who Gets In and Why (2020) explores college admissions, shedding light on the complex and often opaque process. Here's why this book is worth your time:
- Offers insights into the inner workings of college admissions, demystifying the selection criteria and decision-making processes.
- Presents personal stories that provide a human touch to the statistical data, making the book relatable and engaging.
- Examines the disparities in the admissions process, sparking important conversations about equity and access in education.
Who should read Who Gets In and Why?
High school students and their parents navigating the college admissions process
Guidance counselors and educators seeking insights into the complexities of college admissions
Admissions officers and higher education professionals looking to understand the evolving landscape of college admissions
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Who Gets In and Why FAQs
What is the main message of Who Gets In and Why?
The main message of Who Gets In and Why highlights the college admissions process and explores factors influencing acceptance.
How long does it take to read Who Gets In and Why?
Reading Who Gets In and Why takes a few hours. A Blinkist summary can be read in under 15 minutes.
Is Who Gets In and Why a good book? Is it worth reading?
With valuable insights on college admissions, Who Gets In and Why is a compelling read for those interested in higher education.
Who is the author of Who Gets In and Why?
The author of Who Gets In and Why is Jeffrey Selingo.
What to read after Who Gets In and Why?
If you're wondering what to read next after Who Gets In and Why, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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- Don’t Go Back to School by Kio Stark
- How to Become a Straight-A Student by Cal Newport
- I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai
- The Education of a Value Investor by Guy Spier