<p>Not on an adcom. Yes, an alum of an Amherst grad; my dad. I may go there (if accepted), but more interested in a larger school. I never said anything about “poor” grades or scores. Never said anything about poor scores discounting grades or scores. Indeed, poor scores and/or grades would certainly cause even some well connected applicants, with or without hooks, to get rejected.<br>
Anyway, If you disagree with those stats, check Yale, for example. The numbers are accurate; not a lie. I know it hurts for many of us to bust our butt, get the high index, get great test scores, only to see the kid with just “good” numbers get in because of some hook, which is usually legacy based. But even though many of us may not like that, it’s the way it is and always will be.<br>
P.S. If you question any of this, read the book about top school admissions, which I believe is titled “The Price of Admission.”
Ask yourself this question, all ec’s and other things basically being equal, would you rather be an SAT 2300 / 3.9 with no hook or a 2100 / 3.5 with a family that has legacy, has been active and generous alums etc… The answer should be obvious.
Great schools will always have enough smart applicants. Great schools don’t need smart applicants (2400/4.0); there are plenty of them out there. But great schools stay great with money, which is used to attract talented professors and build buildings. If you really disagree with any of this, tell me why.
Very good luck to you.</p>