🍦Equity in College(Nov 22)

Good morning folks! Here’s what we have today:

1. Link Lounge Refresh: new scholarships and Coursify

2. Daily Deep Dive: Amherst College

3. Friday News Focus: Equity and wealth distribution in college

FUN FACT OF THE DAY
Did you know…

😸 Dartmouth Dr. Seuss: Dr. Seuss (real name: Theodor Geisel) was a member of the Dartmouth Class of 1925. After being busted for illegal drinking and banned from extracurricular activities, Geisel adopted the pen name “Seuss” to continue working on the college humor magazine.

LINK LOUNGE
New upcoming information sessions from NYU and Penn!

Here’s some upcoming school virtual information sessions. These are great opportunities to learn more about school’s programs to determine if the school is a right fit for you. It’s also great to learn more about the school’s vibe and possibly what admissions officers are looking for. All the times listed are below are already converted into Pacific.

Discover UCSD Session - Thursday, November 21, 2024 at 3:00 PM until 3:45 PM

UC Berkeley Admissions Presentation (FIRST-YEAR) - ****Thursday, November 21, 2024 at 3:00 PM until 4:00 PM

WUSTL McKelvey School of Engineering Virtual Information Session - Thursday, November 21, 2024 at 5:00 PM until 6:00 PM

(NEW) NYU Virtual Information Session Webinar - Tuesday, November 26, 2024 at 6:00 AM until 7:00 AM

(NEW) Penn Admissions Virtual Information Session - Monday, December 2, 2024 at 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM

DAILY DEEP DIVE
Amherst College

Here’s a little information about Amherst

Located in Amherst, Massachusetts, Amherst College is a premier liberal arts institution with a reputation for academic rigor and inclusivity. As part of the Five College Consortium, Amherst students can take classes at nearby schools, including Mount Holyoke, Smith, Hampshire, and UMass Amherst, giving access to over 5,300 courses!

Amherst’s open curriculum sets it apart—there are no general education requirements, allowing students to shape their own intellectual journeys. The college emphasizes small class sizes, close faculty interaction, and a First-Year Seminar that encourages innovative thinking. Amherst is also deeply committed to financial aid, meeting 100% of demonstrated need for all admitted students while remaining need-blind for both domestic and international applicants

What is Amherst’s vibe, and what type of kids are they looking for?

Think intellectually curious, self-directed, and collaborative. Amherst thrives on diversity, valuing students who bring unique perspectives and are eager to engage with a community that celebrates open dialogue. Whether you’re passionate about bridging cultural divides, solving complex problems, or exploring uncharted academic territories, Amherst wants individuals who aren’t afraid to take intellectual risks and lean into uncomfortable conversations

What are the essays, and why are they asking these questions?

Amherst’s writing supplement includes two options:

Option A offers four prompts that challenge applicants to reflect on thought-provoking quotes. These prompts test your ability to critically engage with ideas, express personal insights, and connect them to your experiences.

Option B asks for a graded paper from high school that showcases your analytical and writing abilities. This option is ideal for students confident in their past academic work【9†source these questions? Amherst’s essay prompts aim to uncover how you think, interpret complex ideas, and articulate your passions—essential traits for thriving in a self-directed academic environment.

How to best answer these questions

Here’s your playbook for each option:

Option A:

1. Choose the quote that resonates deeply: Consider not just what aligns with your beliefs but also what sparks curiosity or challenges you.

2. Make it personal: Share how the ideas relate to your experiences, values, or aspirations. Avoid generic responses—this essay is all about you.

3. Be authentic and concise: With only 300 words, focus on clarity and substance. A well-structured essay with vivid anecdotes will stand out.

Option B:

• Select a paper that demonstrates both your analytical skills and passion for the subject. Essays on literature, history, or sociology often work well.

• Ensure your chosen piece reflects your voice and ability to construct a persuasive argument with evidence. If in doubt, seek feedback from a trusted teacher

FRIDAY NEWS FOCUS
Equity and wealth distribution in college

This week, a study featured in Inside Higher Ed highlighted a persistent challenge for elite colleges: enrolling low-income students. Despite significant changes in education and policy since the 1920s, the share of students from low-income families at elite colleges has barely shifted. Today, only abo ut 3% of undergraduates at these institutions come from the bottom 20% of income earners, a stark contrast to the 57% from the top 20%. This gap underscores ongoing inequities in access to prestigious education.

Efforts like financial aid programs and need-blind admissions have not moved the needle significantly. Researchers argue that systemic barriers, including disparities in K-12 preparation, application guidance, and perceptions of affordability, continue to hinder progress. Meanwhile, wealthier students benefit from better preparation, access to resources, and networks that ease their pathway to top-tier schools.

This study calls for a reassessment of how elite colleges approach equity in admissions. While financial aid initiatives are critical, addressing deeper structural issues, such as inequitable educational opportunities and the role of legacy admissions, is essential for meaningful change. The findings challenge elite institutions to rethink their role in fostering upward mobility and creating a more inclusive academic landscape.

For the full story, read the full article or, even better, read the study.

INFO ZONE
New upcoming information sessions from NYU and Penn!

Here’s some upcoming school virtual information sessions. These are great opportunities to learn more about school’s programs to determine if the school is a right fit for you. It’s also great to learn more about the school’s vibe and possibly what admissions officers are looking for. All the times listed are below are already converted into Pacific.

NYU Virtual Information Session Webinar - Tuesday, November 26, 2024 at 6:00 AM until 7:00 AM

Penn Admissions Virtual Information Session - Monday, December 2, 2024 at 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM

TIKTOK THURSDAY
#collegeadmissiontips (from yesterday)

DAILY DEADLINE UPDATES
Take a break you deserve it! UC’s are almost here though!

In the Daily Deadlines section, we will keep you updated on upcoming deadlines in the college admissions world. Remember to not procrastinate and stay ahead of these deadlines!

UC Deadline: December 2
December SAT: December 7

THE ARCHIVE
Looking for past mailings?

You can view all our previous posts at our website at https://scholarscoops.beehiiv.com

IDEAS COME FROM EVERYWHERE
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