In today’s heated debates over affirmative action, Michelle Obama’s reflections on her path to Princeton highlight the deep divisions in how merit and diversity are valued in higher education. Her recent comments on the “Diary of a CEO” podcast, which first aired in May 2023 and have since been re-released, touch on a sensitive and contentious issue. Obama discussed her experiences of feeling underestimated, stating she was an affirmative action student and feeling intimidated by Princeton’s Ivy status. She did not specifically say she had not exceptional scores; rather, she spoke about overcoming self-doubt and realizing that her feelings of intimidation were based in systemic issues, not her own lack of ability.
Affirmative action, initially intended to level the playing field, has transformed into a contentious policy. Its critics argue that it sometimes replaces meritocracy with racial or ethnic considerations, which does not serve the long-term interests of students or institutions. These policies can create environments where students, supposedly benefitting from affirmative action, feel that they have to constantly prove themselves simply because of their racial background. This experience can undermine their confidence, generating doubt instead of inclusion.
Obama’s experience is a prime example of how affirmative action can entangle students in a web of conflicting messages. The very policy designed to offer opportunities can simultaneously suggest that they could not earn these positions on merit alone. This perpetuates a damaging narrative that creates unease and self-doubt among students who receive opportunities through such programs. While it’s crucial to acknowledge and address social and educational inequities, policies should not inadvertently diminish the achievements and capabilities of those they aim to assist.
Moreover, admissions by affirmative action might inadvertently obscure the true root of educational disparities. Instead of focusing on making lower-level education systems more robust and inclusive so that all students can compete equally on merit, efforts are diverted towards college admissions fixes. A fairer educational landscape would ensure that every student, regardless of background, receives the strong foundation necessary to succeed without the need for policies that might dilute the essence of achievement.
As the conversation continues, it’s important to foster educational systems where capability and hard work are prioritized. Policies must be carefully crafted to support all students without unintentionally assigning them a second-tier status. By focusing on genuine educational reform from the ground up, society can move closer to a genuine meritocracy where skin color, legacy connections, and athletic prowess do not overshadow academic achievement. Michelle Obama’s story is a reminder of the complexities in doing justice to these ideals while not losing sight of individual merit.
