Clout in College

Justin Lynch

The Chicago Tribune had an astonishing report on how Illinois politicans were able to get children, kids of friends, and even people they barely know admitted to U of I, some with subpar academic records. Stuff like this probably happens at private colleges and it's understandable. Higher education is no different from politics: money buys influence, and if a big donor wants a grandson admitted, it probably gets done. However, with a school that uses taxpayer money, this is appalling.

U of I is the conscience of this state. Its high quality research, athletics, and standards make it one of the best schools in Illinois and certainly the Midwest. Not surprisingly, soon after the report the U of I president pledged to review the admissions system.