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…

Not because they’re lost. Because they’re actually paying attention.” I asked her what she wanted beyond Yale’s prestige, beyond admissions theater, beyond what sounded good at dinner parties. She answered without flinching. “I want to write,” she said. “Not just as a hobby. I know that sounds naïve.” “No,” I said. “It sounds honest.” She studied continue reading …