<p>As the parent whose children got into Ivy League schools without being legacies, or development cases, or underrepresented minority students, or athletes, I know how hard it is to compete without one of these preferences, but I think they are completely valid considerations for admissions departments. They contribute to schools in a variety of ways. Legacy admits help foster a relationship with a school that continues through the generations. Development admits help pay for scholarships for students who could otherwise not afford these schools, and they contribute in many other ways as well to the financial well-being of schools. Underrepresented minority students ensure that not everyone thinks or looks alike. It is no secret that successful athletic teams attract both applicants and financial contributions. Artists contribute to intellectual diversity. Who would want to attend a school made up entirely of kids with straight A’s and high test scores?</p>