A Bay Area student who was rejected by 16 out of the 18 colleges he applied to has managed to secure his dream job at Google as a software engineer. Stanley Zhong, a recent high school graduate, defied the odds and landed a full-time position at the tech giant without even attending college. His unconventional path has drawn attention to the flaws in the college admissions system, sparking criticism and concerns among experts.
Despite boasting an impressive GPA of 4.42 (weighted) and an SAT score of 1590, Zhong faced rejection from the majority of the colleges he applied to. Allen Koh, CEO of Cardinal Education, a company that provides educational consulting services, was not surprised by Zhong’s rejections. He explained that as an Asian male interested in computer science, Zhong faced tougher competition due to unfavorable admission probabilities in that demographic.
According to Koh, one possible reason for Zhong’s rejections could be his intense focus on computer science during high school, which made him appear too one-dimensional to some universities. He added that admissions in all the sciences, particularly engineering, have become highly competitive over the years. Asians, in particular, have faced increasing challenges when it comes to being accepted into STEM programs.
Koh advised that in order to improve their chances of admission into competitive STEM programs, students must demonstrate not only excellence in their chosen field of study but also display well-roundedness and a pursuit of other interests at a high level. He emphasized the need for reform in the admissions process, calling for greater transparency from universities regarding their standards to level the playing field and eliminate the need for private college consultants or school counselors.
Stanley Zhong himself echoed this sentiment, expressing the desire for transparency in the admissions process. He believes that rejected applicants should be provided with clear reasons for their rejections rather than being left in the dark.
While Zhong’s case is considered unusual, education experts suggest that community college can be a viable pathway for students looking to get ahead. Community colleges often offer lower tuition fees and ample financial assistance. They also have transfer agreements with prestigious universities, allowing students to gain admission after completing their initial studies.
It is clear that the story of Stanley Zhong’s journey to securing a job at Google despite facing multiple college rejections has sparked debates about the flaws in the college admissions process. The call for greater transparency and reform may pave the way for a more equitable system that benefits all aspiring students. As the conversations continue, it is important for students to explore alternative pathways, such as community college, to achieve their academic and career goals.
