Letters to the Editor

Frats and sororities not the only exclusive groups around

Regarding 'University confronts Greek life' (Monday, May 9):

The school seems to be after fraternities and sororities only because they are symbolically more associated with drinking and exclusivity than anything else. But in fact, many other groups on campus exemplify these traits but are free of persecution. For instance, as was suggested at the end of the article, there is little social difference between Greek groups and athletic teams:

Exclusive? Check.

Insulated? Check.

Feeders to eating clubs? Check.

In addition, if the school is so critical of exclusive groups, it should reexamine its own admissions policy. Doesn't an admissions rejection letter basically say "we don't want to hang out with you"? Not that these letters intend to be malicious or insulting, but neither do greek groups denying bids. Rejections in both cases instead are saying, "we can't take everyone, and we're sorry, but there were others slightly more impressive."

So why is the University so disturbed by exclusivity, when the administration practices it every year, and "hoses" thousands and thousands more than greek groups ever could? Ed Reynolds '06

Shift to Early Action a smart move for the University

Regarding 'Admissions to consider Early Action' (Wednesday, May 4):

As a prospective Princetonian (Class of 2010), I would like to take this opportunity to endorse the move to Early Action. By providing applicants the Early Action option, it allows students to keep their options open if they change their minds for any reason — be it location, curriculum or insufficient financial aid. The Early Action change will still allow the admissions office to see which students are more interested in Princeton than regular applicants, while putting less pressure on students to make up their minds.

As a member of the admissions commitee, I would rather accept more students and have a lower yield, than accept more early and have those students legally bound to accept, even if it is not their first choice because many students face pressure when choosing colleges to apply to.

I contend that by allowing applicants the non-binding option, there will be a larger applicant pool, and therefore a lower yield, a larger yield of dedicated students. Sam Fox