Member-only story

Inside Graduate Admissions: Merit, Diversity, and Faculty Gatekeeping

Harrison Blair

·10.5k Followers· Follow

Published in Inside Graduate Admissions: Merit Diversity And Faculty Gatekeeping

5 min read · 3 weeks before

195 View Claps

37 Respond

Save

Listen

In the competitive world of higher education, securing admission to graduate school can be a daunting task. While academic merit is often seen as the primary determinant, the reality is far more complex. "Inside Graduate Admissions: Merit, Diversity, and Faculty Gatekeeping" delves into the multifaceted world of graduate school admissions, shedding light on the interplay of merit, diversity, and the often-overlooked role of faculty gatekeeping.

Inside Graduate Admissions: Merit, Diversity, and Faculty Gatekeeping

by Julie R. Posselt

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2169 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	266 pages

Unraveling the Complexity of Merit

Traditionally, merit has been the cornerstone of graduate school admissions. Applicants with stellar academic records, high standardized test scores, and impressive research experience are often seen as the most deserving candidates. However, the concept of merit is not as straightforward as it may seem. As the author argues, merit is not simply a measure of an applicant's academic prowess but also a reflection of their cultural capital, socioeconomic background, and access to opportunities.

The book explores how these factors can influence an applicant's perceived merit and their chances of admission. It challenges the assumption that merit is purely objective and highlights the need for a more holistic approach to evaluating candidates.

Embracing Diversity: Beyond Traditional Measures

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of diversity in graduate education. Universities are actively striving to create more inclusive and equitable admissions processes that welcome students from all backgrounds. "Inside Graduate Admissions" examines the challenges and successes of these efforts, exploring the complexities of balancing merit with diversity goals.

The book provides practical insights into how admissions committees are grappling with issues such as unconscious bias, underrepresented minorities, and the need for a more nuanced understanding of diversity. It argues that true diversity goes beyond traditional measures of race and gender and encompasses a wide range of perspectives, experiences, and identities.

The Influence of Faculty Gatekeeping

One of the most fascinating aspects of the book is its exploration of the role of faculty in graduate admissions. Faculty members play a crucial role in screening applicants, making recommendations, and ultimately shaping the composition of their programs. The author argues that faculty gatekeeping can have a significant impact on the diversity and inclusivity of graduate education.

The book examines how faculty biases, preferences, and socialization can influence their assessment of applicants. It also explores the power dynamics that exist between faculty and potential students, and the ways in which these dynamics can shape admission decisions.

A Call for Transparency and Accountability

Based on extensive research and interviews with admissions officers, faculty members, and graduate students, "Inside Graduate Admissions" provides a comprehensive analysis of the complex interplay of merit, diversity, and faculty gatekeeping in graduate school admissions. The author calls for greater transparency and accountability in the admissions process, arguing that a lack of clarity can perpetuate existing inequalities.

The book concludes with a set of recommendations for reforming graduate admissions, including the need for more standardized and transparent criteria, training for admissions committees, and a stronger focus on diversity and inclusion.

"Inside Graduate Admissions: Merit, Diversity, and Faculty Gatekeeping" is an essential read for anyone interested in the future of graduate education. It provides an in-depth examination of the complex forces that shape admission decisions, challenging traditional assumptions and opening up new avenues for dialogue and reform.

By shedding light on the interplay of merit, diversity, and faculty influence, the book empowers students, faculty, and administrators to work towards a more equitable and inclusive graduate school admissions process that reflects the values of a truly diverse and dynamic society.

Inside Graduate Admissions: Merit, Diversity, and Faculty Gatekeeping

by Julie R. Posselt

4.8 out of 5