Why do Colleges Want "Well Rounded" Students?

  • Context: Admissions 
  • Thread starter Thread starter YoshiMoshi
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the rationale behind colleges seeking "well-rounded" students during the admissions process. Participants explore the implications of extracurricular activities on a student's potential success and the overall branding of the institution. The conversation touches on various aspects including institutional needs, student experiences, and socioeconomic factors influencing admissions criteria.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants argue that universities, as businesses, should focus solely on academic qualifications, questioning the relevance of extracurricular activities to educational outcomes.
  • Others contend that elite institutions, like Caltech and MIT, prioritize academic performance over extracurricular involvement, suggesting that their admissions processes are less concerned with a student's "well-roundedness."
  • Several participants propose that a well-rounded student may possess essential skills such as time management and teamwork, which are critical for success in college.
  • Some contributions highlight that certain schools have institutional needs that require a diverse student body to support various programs, such as sports and arts, which can enhance the university's brand and alumni relations.
  • Concerns are raised about socioeconomic disparities, with some participants suggesting that the emphasis on being "well-rounded" may disproportionately favor students from affluent backgrounds who have access to more resources and opportunities.
  • A participant notes that admissions criteria may be adjusted based on the resources available to students, indicating that context matters in evaluating applications.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of views, with no clear consensus on the importance of being "well-rounded" in college admissions. Some agree on the necessity of certain skills for success, while others dispute the relevance of extracurricular activities altogether.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include varying definitions of "well-rounded," differing institutional priorities, and the impact of socioeconomic status on access to extracurricular opportunities. The discussion reflects a complex interplay of factors influencing admissions beyond academic performance alone.

  • #91
gmax137 said:
Wait, are you saying Jews are not "well rounded?" Seriously?
Well, the people who came up with "well rounded" in 1920s chose to define "well-rounded" in such a way as to be able to keep Jews out.
Not a coincidence that these people also engaged in a witchhunt against professional athletes.
 
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  • #92
Thread is closed for Moderation...
 
  • #93
Since this long thread is wandering off into territory we'd rather not visit, it will remain closed. Thanks folks.
 
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