How does affirmative action impact college admissions?

I'm curious about the role affirmative action plays in the college admissions process. How does it affect applications and chances for admission, especially for students from underrepresented backgrounds? I'm trying to understand how it could impact where I apply.

Affirmative action was traditionally a practice utilized by many colleges to increase diversity and provide group-based advantage to traditionally underrepresented or disadvantaged students. It often considered racial and ethnic backgrounds, along with other factors, to promote diverse student bodies. However, the Supreme Court stuck down Affirmative Action in June 2023, which means that colleges may no longer practice race-conscious admissions.

This does not mean that colleges have stopped committing to diversity and inclusivity. Schools can still take into account how race has impacted a student individually. For instance, if a student experienced hardships because of their racial or ethnic background and chooses to write about this in their college essay, the college can consider these experiences in their admissions decision.

It's important to note that while racial and ethnic diversity may be considerations, colleges also value a multitude of other diverse experiences and perspectives. Being from a unique geographical area, having a specific academic interest, or possessing unique extracurricular talents can all contribute to the concept of diversity in a college's student body.

It's also worth noting that the college application process does involve a holistic review, where colleges assess not only your academic achievements but also your personal experiences, extracurricular activities, and potential contributions to their community.

So while the practical implementation of affirmative action has changed, the ultimate goal of promoting inclusivity and diversity remains a vital part of many colleges' missions. When considering where to apply, you should look at the colleges' stated commitment to diversity and consider if the environment they are striving to cultivate aligns with your own values and experiences.