Zach Yadegari, a 17-year-old high school student and co-founder of the viral AI calorie-tracking app Cal AI, recently revealed that he was rejected by 15 top colleges despite his impressive 4.0 GPA and 34 ACT score. Yadegari’s essay, which he posted on X, was criticized for being arrogant and not conveying a genuine desire for education. The incident sparked a heated debate on the college acceptance system, entrepreneurship, and the definition of success.
Forecast for 6 months: The college acceptance system will face increased scrutiny and criticism, with many calling for a more holistic approach to evaluating applicants. This could lead to changes in the way colleges assess applicants, potentially making it easier for students like Yadegari to get accepted.
Forecast for 1 year: The debate on the value of a college education will continue to gain momentum, with more students and entrepreneurs like Yadegari questioning the need for a traditional college degree. This could lead to a shift in the way people view success and achievement, with a greater emphasis on skills and experience over credentials.
Forecast for 5 years: The rise of online learning and alternative education platforms will continue to disrupt the traditional college model. This could lead to a more democratized education system, where students have access to a wide range of learning opportunities and can pursue their interests without being tied to a specific institution.
Forecast for 10 years: The concept of success will undergo a significant transformation, with a greater emphasis on personal growth, relationships, and community involvement. This could lead to a shift away from the traditional metrics of success, such as wealth and status, and towards a more holistic definition of achievement.
