A&M now has an acceptance rate for new applicants of around 65%. Many have concluded, I think rightfully so, this is not some “lib” policy of diversity and inclusion. It is about producing much higher numbers of A&M grads in the state vs. their hated “tu” grads over the long term. This could have real political implications as it affects the University. Imagine what could have happened with our move to the SEC if some vengeful ag were governor? Obviously, there are likely much more substantive things this could affect than football down the line. Certainly.
In the early 90s when I was admitted UT had a higher admission rate. Now, I likely would never have gotten in as a transfer unless I went solely liberal arts (I have a business degree). Now, it is extremely difficult to get in. How many threads have we seen over the years where top-notch, Longhorn loving kids are denied admission?
Who does this exclusivity at Texas benefit? Unless I have missed something, a degree from Texas is no more prestigious now than it was in 1995. UT’s undergrad business school is still top 5. Have any other of our colleges seen dramatic jumps in the rankings? IDK.
What this appears to serve, at least to me, is the vanity of the academics and their ability to tout Texas’ “highly competitive admissions.” Hence, the validity and prestige of their own positions. It is certainly not to the benefit of the people of the State of Texas and giving them access to an institution of higher learning of the first class — The University’s stated mission and responsibility.
I am not suggesting we mimic the damn near open admissions at A&M, but we can certainly return to some modicum of prestige that still allows greater access for our hard working and deserving students, who will turnaround and do great things for the US, Texas, and the University.
If our new leadership is really serious about “winning” across the board, I think the admissions policy is something that should be considered.
In the early 90s when I was admitted UT had a higher admission rate. Now, I likely would never have gotten in as a transfer unless I went solely liberal arts (I have a business degree). Now, it is extremely difficult to get in. How many threads have we seen over the years where top-notch, Longhorn loving kids are denied admission?
Who does this exclusivity at Texas benefit? Unless I have missed something, a degree from Texas is no more prestigious now than it was in 1995. UT’s undergrad business school is still top 5. Have any other of our colleges seen dramatic jumps in the rankings? IDK.
What this appears to serve, at least to me, is the vanity of the academics and their ability to tout Texas’ “highly competitive admissions.” Hence, the validity and prestige of their own positions. It is certainly not to the benefit of the people of the State of Texas and giving them access to an institution of higher learning of the first class — The University’s stated mission and responsibility.
I am not suggesting we mimic the damn near open admissions at A&M, but we can certainly return to some modicum of prestige that still allows greater access for our hard working and deserving students, who will turnaround and do great things for the US, Texas, and the University.
If our new leadership is really serious about “winning” across the board, I think the admissions policy is something that should be considered.
