Changes in University Admissions
Top universities are about to make the enrollment process even more complicated. This fall, eight institutions, including the University of Chicago, Columbia, Northwestern, Johns Hopkins, and Vanderbilt, will start to accept a new applicant portfolio called “dialog.” This initiative is spearheaded by Sal Khan, known for his work with Khan Academy.
High school students will participate in Zoom sessions with peers and tutors, covering topics like immigration and the Israel-Palestine situation. They will also evaluate each other based on traits like empathy, curiosity, and kindness, as shared by Alex Bronzini Vender in the New York Times. Bronzini Vender is currently a sophomore at Harvard University.
According to him, attending more sessions could lead to greater recognition of one’s positive qualities by peers.
This is basically promoting good behavior for uninteresting people. https://t.co/4Sxr3ppj5e
– Nate Silver (@natesilver538) July 17, 2025
It’s worth questioning how effective this method really is. Students log in, perhaps express genuine opinions, and assess each other honestly. But who actually clears this filter?
Being charismatic can be an advantage, but the program seems to prioritize those who align with general views and show sensitivity. A steadfast pursuit of truth could hinder one’s social standing—especially concerning contentious issues like immigration policy. A student might offer a respectful viewpoint on tough topics, yet still receive low scores from more liberal peers.
Many students are aware of this dynamic. Bronzini Vender notes that a new understanding in the college application landscape suggests steering clear of political discussions altogether. He cites college admissions expert Caroline Koppelman, who advises applicants to avoid divisive topics that may unsettle admissions officers.
After warning against writing about the challenges of being “a straight white guy in today’s world,” Koppelman shares that maintaining a positive outlook is key.
Elite universities are set to prioritize scores for admission! But isn’t it counterproductive to assess candidates solely on scores while simultaneously teaching them how to engage in discussions?
– Steve McGuire (@sfmcguire79) July 16, 2025
For applicants, this advice might come off as sensible, yet it could also ring alarm bells. The advice is somewhat patronizing, with consultants on platforms like TikTok instructing students on how to appear empathetic. Once the process of measuring empathy or understanding becomes a target, it loses its sincerity.
The admissions practices now sort candidates into two broad categories: those who don’t conform to group think and those who excel at it. Interestingly, identifying as “queer” or “Latinx” also appears to bear weight in this evaluation.
