Last month, United States prosecutors disclosed a conspiracy about how wealthy elites throughout the country influenced student college admissions decisions at several prominent universities.
Although at least 50 people are being indicted with alleged complaints of fraud and conspiracy, actresses Lori Laughlin and Felicity Huffman are the two most notable women who seem to be the face of this scandal.
This is the largest college admissions scam that the U.S. Justice Department has ever seen, and the man behind all of it was William “Rick” Singer.
Singer was the CEO of a company called The Key, which was a front for helping wealthy elites buy their child’s way into college. He also was author of a book called “Getting In: Gaining Admission To The College Of Your Choice.”
If one were to look into Singer and his businesses, they might find it very interesting how conspicuous and transparent his dealings were.
Singer facilitated admissions, in part, by bribing various athletic coaches, and manipulating tests by allowing a test taker to take a child’s entrance exams, to ensure optimal results.
On March 12, Singer was charged with and plead guilty to racketeering conspiracy, money laundering, tax conspiracy and obstruction of justice. His sentencing is scheduled for June 19.
This is a prime example of “how it isn’t a level playing field,” says former Utah Education Association President Kaye Chatterton. “Hardworking kids will spend a lifetime paying off debt and student loans, while mediocre rich kids will be free and clear.”
Chatterton says this process “shows what influence money has” and how some people have “no moral compass.” Additionally, she says this situation completely “diminishes colleges’ reputations.”
Operation Varsity Blues really gives insight to the cost, pressure and stress of college admission. The scandal may be disconcerting for college students who do work hard and put forth the ambition and effort in aspiring to their dreams.
SLCC student Tyler Lam, who is finishing his generals at the Taylorsville Redwood Campus, says the scandal is “wack.”
“I’m planning on transferring up to the [University of Utah] and have no idea how I’m going to pay for that,” he says.