I'm an alum who's surprised by the recent lack of mammoths attaining top graduate fellowship. This year there are zero, ZERO, mammoths receiving a Schwarzman scholarship; meanwhile, Williams has 2 grads, Barnard has 1 grad, Pomona has 1 grad, Vassar has 1 grad, even trinity has 1! Fewer and fewer students are getting research Fulbrights, just the lousy teaching ones, and even the low-hanging fellowships like Obama-Chesky are not being obtained by current students. Is there a change in student quality? What is going on!? |
Just variation over the years. Student quality is getting worse across the board for the top colleges. |
You’re upset that students aren’t risking studying in china right now? |
The only noticeable change in the recent years is that they have increased the number of Asian students and decreased the number of URM. The percentage of Asian admits shoots up to 20%. |
Say it isn’t so. |
Years of Test Optional finally coming home to roost. |
I doubt that this is actually true. Do you have objective data? |
So are all other lacs. This couldn't explain it. |
Casually glanced over the fact that Swarthmore didn't have one either this year. Didn't mention that Amherst has a Rhodes scholar this year, while only Pomona is a peer with another Rhodes scholar. You didn't mention the two Gaither Fellows this year either. |
Rhodes > Schwarzman (especially now, sheesh) |
Fellowships do not measure the quality of the undergrad student body. Many fellowships are connections-based (looking at you Rhodes) and ones like Schwarzman honor and recognize industry experience before hopping in.
In terms of Fulbright research vs masters, most kids have spent a majority of their life in school. Some want to take time off and give back to others. The teaching program is an amazing experience. |
I feel the quality of students has gone down due to test optional - they are less prepared and motivated. Feeling this way as an alum and based on those that reach out to me. |
Sounds like you work at the backup company that the top grads aren't interested in. New generation and all. |
I'm sure your feelings are based on empirical evidence and not cranky-old-manism. ![]() |
You say Schwartzman, I think American Pie.
— Gen X Lady Jeff |