Why would Princeton and Stanford accept me but not Harvard, Yale or Columbia?
The ironic thing is, I wasn’t going to apply to Princeton because I did not think I would be accepted, it’s the #1 university in the nation (world, depending on who’s ranking system). I was more confident with Harvard because I had a personal interview with a rep. And had no doubts about Yale or Columbia. Needless to say I was shocked by the results: #1 wants me but #2 & 3 don’t. I used the common application to apply to Princeton, Harvard and Yale so they all have the same information, except for the supplemental essays which were very similiar. What do you think may have caused this to occur? I’ve been told that Harvard and Yale or more "traditional" or "conservative" in their admissions (I’m being politically correct- I’m Black and more of a Malcolm X supporter than King). Think that may have been a factor?
I was accepted to everyone school I applied to which is really rare. Honestly that doesn’t often happen so you really shouldn’t be worried about it.
Congrats on getting accepted to your back up school though.
I personally think you should just be happy you were accepted. Not everyone gets the change to go to college or university.
A school cannot deny your application because of your beliefs and race. That is discrimination.
They likely just weren’t all that impressed with your interview or application. Those schools are very hard to get into.
Each school has different ranking systems. If the minority issue played a role it was probably just weighed heavier at one school rather then the other. However, several other things are important too that are ranked differently. Examples include: how well rounded you are, if you had a family member attend the school, if you are the first generation to attend college, and most importantly…your major. You have to remember that your application is screened by a dean and their committee. You don’t know what kind of day they were having when your application crossed their desk.
First of all congratulations, you got into two of the most desired Universities in the world!!! That is an accomplishment that 99% of this year’s college applicants would give their right eye for.
As far as where you got in and where you didn’t, it is probably just random. Don’t look for underlying reasons or causes. With schools of that caliber it is very much of a crap shoot. The thing is that you made it into two of the big time heavy hitters and will enjoy success no matter what your choice is. Celebrate!