LEGACY STUDENT Meaning and
Definition
-
A legacy student is a term commonly used in the context of college admissions to refer to an applicant who has a familial connection to the institution they are applying to. In other words, legacy students are those individuals who have a parent, grandparent, or sibling who attended the same college or university. This familial tie is often considered by admissions committees as a factor that may positively affect the applicant's chances of acceptance.
Being a legacy student can provide various advantages during the college admissions process. Many institutions hold a certain level of pride in their alumni and seek to maintain connections with these families over generations. As a result, legacy students may be given preferential treatment or have a higher likelihood of being admitted compared to other applicants with similar academic qualifications.
The rationale behind this preference lies in the assumption that legacy students will contribute to the continuity and tradition of the institution. By admitting these students, colleges hope to secure their ongoing financial support through donations or endowments and maintain a sense of loyalty and connection among their alumni network.
However, the practice of legacy admissions has been a subject of debate within the broader discussion on equity and fairness in college admissions. Critics argue that prioritizing legacy status perpetuates social and economic inequalities, as these students tend to come from more affluent backgrounds. On the other hand, proponents argue that legacy admissions can enhance alumni engagement and foster a strong sense of community within the institution.
Etymology of LEGACY STUDENT
The term "legacy student" is derived from the word "legacy" which has its origins in the Latin word "legatus", meaning ambassador or envoy. In the context of education, a legacy student refers to an individual who is admitted to a college or university because they have familial connections to alumni of that institution. The legacy student classification is often given preferential treatment during the admissions process, which is why the term is used to describe this particular group.
