http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/22/us/justices-to-hear-case-on-affirmative-action-in-higher-education.html?_r=1&hpw
I really hope that this case won't reduce diversity here at UT, or any other selective school. One of the most enriching parts of my experience here has been the wide range of people I've come in contact with. Additionally, affirmative action goes a long way in reaching out those from underserved communities. It's great to hear that minorities, people from low income backgrounds, etc have the chance to achieve their dreams through this policy. I understand that there are some glitches in the system and there are cases of unqualified people gaining admission over qualified people. However, I think that the success stories outweigh the other stories. I've met people who are extremely intelligent, yet they may not have had as strong grades, test scores, etc due to their environment and lack of preparation. This policy helps such individuals reach their potential and takes into consideration the struggles that may have impeded their success. I agree that the system can be modified in some ways, however, I feel that its general concept is in line with our American ideology. Affirmative action is one way that we can achieve equality in our society, and I truly hope that it isn't eliminated.
Natasha -
ReplyDeleteI agree that many people may be deprived of a well-deserved education at the college level if not for affirmative action. Though there are other institutions, I feel that students who are qualified applicants (overall) should be admitted because once that's done, they have to prove themselves grade-wise, etc. any way. I too, am glad about the diversity at U.T. because I've met so many interesting, talented, insightful, incredible people since my first semester in the Fall of 2009. Another positive spin on the diversity issue is that if not for admission of students from so many different racial/ethnic, socioeconomic, cultural backgrounds, the students who are admitted would probably continue to attend classes with the exact same types of people with whom they've been in contact all of their lives prior to college. Where's the growth in that scenario?
Great post! I actually had to idea that UT still practiced affirmative action. I learned in one of m classes that not so long ago UT had problems with A.A. so i thought they had stopped it there. To be honest I am not quite sure how I feel about all this. Being a minority of course I am glad that there is diversity but I just don't see it so fair.
ReplyDelete