The Price of Admission: How America's Ruling Class Buys Its Way Into Elite Colleges--And Who Gets Left Outside the Gates : Book Review

"The Price of Admission" by Daniel Golden provides a profound exploration of the hidden world of college admissions in America, exposing the preferential treatment received by wealthy and influential families. Golden's extensive research and interviews shed light on the practices of elite colleges and the extraordinary lengths affluent parents go to secure admission for their children. Through vivid examples and compelling anecdotes, he unveils the unfair advantages enjoyed by a privileged few, including legacy admissions, development cases, and even bribery. This book challenges the notion of a meritocracy and raises critical questions about social mobility and equal opportunities in higher education.

Golden takes readers on a comprehensive journey through the opaque college admissions process, unveiling the injustices that occur behind closed doors. He meticulously explores the power of alumni connections and their impact on securing admission for students. Additionally, he delves into the influence of substantial financial donations on the admissions decisions, uncovering the potential for favoritism and bribery. Golden's meticulous research and skillful writing make this book an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to understand the inner workings of college admissions.

A noteworthy strength of "The Price of Admission" is Golden's ability to draw attention to the systemic inequalities in higher education without solely blaming individuals. Instead, he effectively reveals how institutions perpetuate these practices, ultimately benefiting the wealthy and well-connected. Through well-supported arguments and detailed analysis, he presents a sobering depiction of how the admissions process is manipulated in favor of privilege over merit.

Moreover, Golden explores the consequences of these practices for society as a whole. He argues that a lack of social mobility and unequal opportunities in higher education perpetuate existing wealth and power disparities. By shining a light on the flaws in the admissions system, Golden encourages readers to question and challenge the status quo, advocating for a more equitable and fair process.

"The Price of Admission" is an enlightening and thought-provoking book that exposes the dark underbelly of college admissions. Golden's meticulous research, compelling storytelling, and insightful analysis make it essential reading for those concerned about the role of wealth and privilege in shaping the landscape of higher education.

What are readers saying?

"The Price of Admission" by Daniel Golden is a thought-provoking and informative exploration of the unfair advantages that wealthy students experience in the college admissions process. Golden's book has received mostly positive reviews, with readers praising his thorough research and critique of the system.

Many reviewers commend Golden for his extensive investigation into college admissions, highlighting his in-depth research and interviews. They appreciate his ability to bring attention to the inequalities and preferential treatment that affluent students receive, which have often gone unnoticed. Readers find Golden's storytelling engaging and compelling, making for a captivating read.

The unethical practices within higher education institutions are exposed in Golden's book, a point that many reviewers appreciate. They find his writing well-supported and thoroughly documented, providing a comprehensive account of how affluent families manipulate the system. Golden's insights and revelations leave readers feeling dissatisfied and desiring change.

Golden also discusses the impact of admissions preferences on minority and low-income students, a topic that readers commend him for addressing. By highlighting the detrimental effects of affirmative action backlash on underrepresented communities, Golden sheds light on the complexities of the issue. Reviewers praise his fair and sensitive handling of these sensitive topics.

Some reviewers do critique Golden for focusing too heavily on elite institutions, neglecting other colleges and universities. They believe a more balanced perspective would have strengthened the book's message. Additionally, a few readers find the book somewhat repetitive in its coverage of certain topics, suggesting that it could have been more succinct.

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