End the College Admissions Mania! A Review of Where You Go Is Not Who You’ll Be

1. Overview

Frank Bruni’s book, Where You Go Is Not Who You’ll Be: An Antidote to the College Admissions Mania, provides a compelling critique of the intense pressure surrounding college admissions.

The book vividly describes:

• Parents planning Ivy League admissions from birth
• Students facing overwhelming pressure from standardized tests
• The obsession with elite institutions

2. The Reality of Top Schools

2.1 Advantages of Elite Institutions

• High-quality education
• Strong career outcomes
• Prestigious rankings
• Excellent resources

2.2 The Numbers Game

A critical perspective: Only 5-10% of students attend top 100 universities, while 90% of students attend other institutions. Success is possible at any school.

3. Problems with College Rankings

3.1 Data Manipulation

• Selectivity metrics are easily manipulated
• Example: Swarthmore College’s application changes
• Focus on rejection rates over quality

3.2 Limited Options

• Rankings artificially restrict choices
• Cookie-cutter college lists
• Neglect of diverse institutional missions

3.3 Accessibility Issues

• Extremely low acceptance rates
• Legacy admissions advantages
• High admission standards

4. What Really Matters

4.1 Debt Impact

• Significant effect on post-graduation success
• Gallup-Purdue study findings
• Student loan default rates

4.2 Graduation Timeline

• Four-year completion rates
• Impact on career success
• Student motivation indicators

4.3 Student Fit

• Individual needs and preferences
• Personal growth opportunities
• Support systems

5. Key Takeaways

5.1 Beyond Rankings

• Focus on personal fit
• Consider multiple factors
• Look beyond prestige

5.2 Success Factors

• Student initiative
• Support systems
• Personal strengths

5.3 Practical Advice

Important Considerations:

• Consider debt carefully
• Focus on graduation rates
• Prioritize fit over brand

6. Related Resources

• College Rankings →
• College Match →
• Financial Aid Guide →