William Deresiewicz

Excellent Sheep

1. IDEA 1

   Elite students may lack direction

   Deresiewicz, who taught at Yale, argues that many students at top American universities are brilliant achievers but anxious and directionless. He calls them excellent sheep, skilled at following paths set by others.

2. IDEA 2

   Admissions drive anxiety

   The author argues that the race for elite college admission pushes children into endless activities chosen for applications. In his view, many students pile on clubs, sports and service not out of interest but to look good on paper.

3. IDEA 3

   Credentials replace curiosity

   The author argues that students focus on gaining credentials rather than exploring ideas for their own sake. In his view, a young person who is busy collecting honours may never ask what they truly care about.

All 8 ideas from Excellent Sheep →