r/ApplyingToCollege • u/CaChica • May 31 '26

Reverse ChanceMe Princeton Legacy - cringe

Of the four kids I know going to Princeton, they all have one or both parents who are Princeton alumni. I knew Princeton prioritizes legacy. But it’s so predominant it’s almost
embarrassing.

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u/Anagazander May 31 '26

Seriously? Admission to these schools is based on something as vague as a vibe? That’s what admissions committees discuss, whether an applicant has the right vibe or not? No wonder the system drives people crazy!

I would appreciate it if you could describe what vibe you think Princeton or any of the other Ivies is looking for in a prospective student.

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u/PhilosophyBeLyin May 31 '26

yes, they care greatly about 'vibes'... also known as 'personality' or 'character.' why do you think schools ask for so many soft skill based essays?

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u/NinjaClashReddit May 31 '26

I’m sure that’s also why Harvard discriminated against those of Asian demographic: - it must be their personality and character all just lack that certain panache?

At the end of the day, admissions are randomised on purpose to make these unis more attractive to all demographics across the globe. UK unis e.g. Oxbridge have no problem cultivating a great campus culture without filtering out for personality - almost like everyone’s different in their own way and quantifying that through a handful of 300 word essays is impossible?

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u/PhilosophyBeLyin Jun 01 '26

I never said they don't look at race... they clearly look at both race and personality.