<p>Reading through the decision, waitlisted and rejection threads really has me puzzling. It makes no sense. Stellar candidates have been rejected and weaker applicants accepted. No clear pattern is evident in terms of ECs, etc. </p>
<p>It is heartbreaking to see so many unbelievable kids left hanging. I find myself struggling to understand how the system could be so…capricious. I am wondering: even with so many applicants, is it possible that they chose to emphasize the personal statements at UCSD this year? That is a theme that seems to emerge as I read thru the threads. </p>
<p>I was always under the impression that UCSD was a powerfully stat-driven
school. Our son has great stats (2300 SAT, 4.1 UC gpa/4.3W, Eagle Scout) and was accepted. But many similar kids (or with slightly lower SAT/higher gpa) were denied. </p>
<p>Our son’s essay was superb–better than his 2300 SAT. He worked on it for almost a month and spent over 30 hours editing that single page of narrative (not kidding!). I’ve rarely encountered a more beautiful, succinct and perfect window into a person’s soul. </p>
<p>So, I wonder: did they pay special attention to the essays this year? Perhaps use them to make some crucial cuts? Would never have expected a huge UC to take this approach, but something strange is going on–that’s for sure.</p>