<p>I have “evolved” (a term that is being thrown all over the place in politics right about now) on the issue of superficial admissions. I mind it to a degree, but it wouldn’t really matter as long as the admissions staff was taking a more detailed look at what they want in students how Emory fits into that equation. For example, if we attracted “superficial” people, can they at least be more passionate and ambitious types (not fake, “I don’t even know why I want to go into this field, but will do anything to get there” type of ambition)? For example, it would be nice one day if Emory was able to attract (as in, enroll) the type that has either attended or placed in Intel Competitions, International Olympiads, and things of that nature. No matter for the reason for these people coming, I know that they will ultimately try hard to get something legit out of an Emory education because they already come in with a high level of passion for or talent (as in, this talent extends beyond doing more stereotypical HS ECs within the field or simply making great grades in it) within a subject that goes beyond merely wanting to use the subject as vehicle into professional school or wherever. I’m fine with them coming here for the rank or because they did not get into some ideal place as long as they intend and try very hard to make a realistic contribution to the environment here. I feel it is easy to develop a love or passion for Emory if you already have or are willing to develop a passion for something that Emory offers. The problem comes when students don’t care for that and everything done at Emory has much less to do with their actual interest, but instead has more to do with a series of checklists.</p>
<p>As for the strategic plan: I believe I’ve read somewhere that they have basically begun to disband/complete it and rework another strategic course in light of the new situations, so it doesn’t really matter. They implemented some parts of it well up to this point and some not so well. Hopefully new developments will help address the weak areas.</p>