| Northeastmom, we actually inquired as to why they don't use portfolios and use unweighted GPA. Their answer was, "being a state school, we must serve all residents. Some kids don't attend great high schools. They might not have great art programs or teachers that encouraged portfolios. Likewise, some high schools don't offer APs or even honors courses. Thus, this system equalizes everyone."
Can you believe that answer? To this day, it amazes me that UC and other schools like them don't realize how idiotic this argument is. They are simply pampering mediocrity at the expense of drive and high performance. I guess Ayn Rand had a point in her book, "Fountainhead." |