The challenges of parenting never seem to fade. One moment, you’re teaching them to use the potty, and the next, they’re preparing for high school graduation. For parents of teens, the college application process can feel overwhelming, both mentally and financially.
Are they enrolled in enough AP courses? Is that B- in Physics going to hurt their chances? Should they take both the SAT and ACT? And what about pricey test prep classes—is it worth it?
In the midst of all this stress over grades and standardized test scores, we often overlook a crucial question: What kind of individuals are we raising? Are they empathetic and kind? Will they make meaningful contributions to society, or are they just high-achievers with little regard for others?
Fortunately, colleges nationwide are starting to recognize that personal character is just as important as academic performance in the admissions process. A report titled Turning the Tide: Inspiring Concern for Others and the Common Good Through College Admissions was released in January by Making Caring Common, a project from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Richard Weissbourd, the lead author, emphasizes several critical yet frequently ignored aspects of a student’s application.
The report advocates that colleges should consider whether applicants are good citizens who positively impact their families and communities. Weissbourd suggests that admissions processes should create space for character and service even if it means prioritizing these qualities over AP classes or test scores.
According to the report, students should highlight their contributions to society, such as volunteering, helping in their community, or caring for family members. After all, producing graduates who excel academically but lack compassion and community spirit does not bode well for our future.
Another point raised in the report is that a singular focus on academics creates an uneven playing field. Students from affluent backgrounds often have the advantage of better grades and test scores. But what about James, who works part-time after school to support his family instead of joining clubs? Shouldn’t he have an equal opportunity? More colleges are beginning to answer yes.
The report suggests that admissions should place greater emphasis on meaningful, sustained community service—projects that require long-term commitment rather than a few hours to check off a box. Weissbourd argues that getting involved deeply can be transformative for students.
Additionally, applicants are encouraged to focus on the quality of their activities rather than just quantity. It’s more valuable to engage in one sport or one club and write about personal growth, leadership skills, and teamwork than to spread themselves too thin.
For this shift to be effective, however, it’s essential for a majority of colleges to embrace this new perspective. If most institutions continue to prioritize long lists of grades and extracurriculars, the emphasis on character and citizenship will be ineffective. But if colleges unite in this approach, it could benefit society as a whole.
Harvard appears to be leading this initiative, and institutions like Yale and the University of Virginia are also on board. As a parent who will soon navigate the college admissions process, I sincerely hope this trend continues.
I want my children to excel academically and participate in meaningful activities, but more importantly, I want them to be kind, compassionate individuals. Their GPA won’t matter to me if they aren’t willing to lend a hand to those in need.
I’m pleased to see colleges acknowledging the significance of character and citizenship in their admissions criteria—it’s about time.
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In summary, this shift in college admissions focuses on fostering good citizens rather than merely producing high achievers, which could lead to a more compassionate society.
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