When I Dropped Out At 20, My Sister Told Everyone: “She’s The One Who Didn’t Finish.” Twelve Years Later, I’m Yale’s Dean Of Admissions. One Essay Read: “My Family Moved Past My Aunt’s Setback.” The Name? Amanda Chen. My Niece. I Picked Up My Red Pen And…

me. She sees you more clearly than I ever let myself.” I stared at the grain of the table. “You called me the family embarrassment,” I said quietly. “I know.” “You told people I was a failure.” “I know.” “You cut me out of your daughter’s life because you didn’t want me influencing her.” On the line, Jennifer made a sound like she had been struck. continue reading …