Many students enjoy reading novels, appreciating the depth and nuance they provide. When asked about the benefits of reading, responses often highlight how novels introduce a variety of characters and deeply explore emotional changes, enriching readers’ understanding of people.

However, I believe this perspective doesn’t necessarily reflect a profound grasp of human nature. While novels skillfully portray psychological dynamics and the environments shaping characters, they remain confined by the author's imagination—essentially a solitary creative endeavor.

True insight into others, I contend, arises from real-life interactions, particularly with individuals who are emotionally or culturally different. The most valuable lessons often emerge in moments of conflict or difference, where understanding must be actively cultivated.

Shifts in College Admissions

Following the Supreme Court’s decision deeming affirmative action unlawful, colleges are now prohibited from considering race as a factor in admissions. In response, Yale University has stated that while race is no longer a criterion, diversity remains a cornerstone of its student body.

To underscore this commitment, Yale has updated its website, emphasizing the importance of diversity and including images reflecting individuals from varied racial backgrounds. Moreover, Yale now blinds names and racial identifiers during the application review process to ensure unbiased evaluations.

Similarly, Harvard University has made clear that race and ethnicity will no longer influence admissions decisions. Across 20 pages of statements, Harvard underscores this shift while affirming its dedication to maintaining a diverse student body.

Yale echoes this sentiment, emphasizing its commitment to multiculturalism. Despite the new legal landscape, Yale assures prospective students that it will continue to recruit individuals from diverse backgrounds, fostering environments that celebrate diversity and inclusion.

Personal Impact: A Key to College Admissions Success

Colleges now place heightened emphasis on the "personal" aspect of applications, particularly valuing students who demonstrate a deep understanding of humanity. This often involves engaging with individuals who are culturally or emotionally distinct.

To illustrate, consider the following example:

Instead of limiting yourself to teaching tennis within the Korean community, take the opportunity to work with refugees or other underserved groups. This shift not only broadens your perspective but also enables you to address pressing challenges these communities face. From there, you might initiate a school-based club that bridges the gap between your peers and these communities, showcasing leadership and fostering meaningful connections.

Encouraging fellow students to join and expand such initiatives further demonstrates your ability to lead and collaborate. If your efforts inspire sustained engagement and make your club indispensable under your leadership, strong teacher recommendations are likely to follow.

For example, creating a club dedicated to supporting refugees not only reflects a genuine interest but also aligns with qualities colleges value, such as empathy, initiative, and leadership.

Colleges like Harvard evaluate students on qualities such as “depth of expertise” and “understanding of people.” During the application process, students must demonstrate intellectual curiosity and academic competence alongside experiences that reveal their ability to connect with emotionally distant individuals.

For many Asian students excelling academically, the personal score can be an area for improvement. To enhance this aspect, focus on experiences that build personal understanding and foster connections with those from culturally or emotionally distinct backgrounds.