<p>
</p>
<p>So the ‘friend’s’ success makes him a jerk? If the OP had been accepted EA and kept his applications in at other places then he’d be a jerk too? Does getting accepted anywhere via EA and keeping other applications active automatically make you a jerk?</p>
<p>Obviously I see nothing wrong with the ‘friend’ applying to as many schools as he likes as long as he follows the stated rules. Personally I don’t find Harvard to be Eden on the Charles River, so it’s not shocking to me that the ‘friend’ would want to explore other options.</p>
<p>I admire your kind-heartedness to the OP. I guess I’m just a crusty old cynical fellow who can’t help thinking that the OP has done everything to present himself in the best possible light.</p>