As junior year progresses, I have been increasingly thinking about my plans for

college. Anxiety overwhelms hope as I begin to question how qualified I may be for the
different paths of further education. Affirmative Action is said to provide an equal
opportunity for everyone regardless of physical characteristics and cultural background.
There is widespread speculation that the Asian-American population on campuses across the
nation has been limited under the guise of diversity. The rumoured quotas on AsianAmericans has been a big fear of mine. The stereotype that Asians excel in school is more
often than not, true. Looking solely at Asians, one can see very high test scores and grade
point averages, with various clubs or sports accompanying them. With such accomplishments
under their belts, these students are qualified for a future in renowned colleges. Due to the
abundance of high achieving Asian-American students, however, schools restrict the number
of Asians admitted in favor of a more diverse student body. The standards of Asians in the
admissions process are undoubtedly higher than the general pool of students. This means
only the best of the best Asians will get the coveted spot at their desired college. I am not at
the top, but other, less qualified students, are able to fill my possible spot simply because they
are a minority. I do not support Affirmative Action, as it disregards what I have accomplished
in favor of what other minorities have accomplished, even if it is not as impressive. That is
not to say that all minorities are under-qualified, but those who are do not need the help of
Affirmative Action. I believe that the solution to developing diversity in education lies in
students primary education, allowing an equal start for everyone. From then on, it is the
students choice to work hard and achieve a higher education. Affirmative Action still judges
based on merit, but adds the obstacle of quotas to certain demographics. As many others have
before me, I will mark my race as White on my college to avoid being placed in the

overflowing pool of accomplished Asians. Maybe then, I will be judged on the same scale as
everyone else.