It is a terrible thing that some one could have cheated the application system enough to earn a $32,000 scholarship at such a prestigious university, but doesn't this tell us anything about the application process itself? (to read more about the article at topic visit http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/10/education/10yale.html?_r=2&ref=education&oref=slogin&oref=slogin). 

In my opinion, the application process is a bit ridiculous, and it obviously does not accurately portray students or their abilities. I recently filled out an application (last week) and I could see how a "lie" could happen on accident. For Akash Maharaj this was not the case, but for many others it could be. I can recall applying for college for a first time, as a highschool student, and the feeling of being completely overwhelmed and confused. It was not only misleading in some senses (mind you these were all cal state applications), but also did not fully allow me to express my potentials. 

I am not giving any sympathy to Maharaj, but I am also not deeming the application process to be entirely innocent.