(TheConservativeTimes.org) – Entrepreneur and 2024 presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy suggested that the College Board’s SAT should include an athletic component to the exam. While some colleges consider SAT scores in admissions decisions, more than 80% of four-year colleges do not require standardized tests for Fall 2023. Regardless, the SAT’s components include reading, writing and language, and math assessments, and Ramaswamy wishes to see the inclusion of physical fitness.
Ramaswamy took to Twitter, saying that since the Supreme Court ended affirmative action, colleges will continue to phase out SAT scores in favor of subjective factors due to the racial disparities in test results. As such, he would want a physical fitness section of the SAT that would consist of components of the Presidential Fitness Test. He believes this would be a merit-based solution that would help with the mental health and drug crisis in the United States by encouraging physical fitness. Ramaswamy clarified that this was not part of his platform, but that this solution should not come from the government, but rather from academics.
Despite this, admissions decisions have been more heavily scrutinized recently for their continuance of legacy admissions, which prioritize the children of alumni students. Furthermore, recruited athletes get preferential treatment in the admissions process for some colleges, giving an advantage to those with athletic talents. Additionally, athleticism is not inherently “diverse,”; left-leaning activists claim sports teams have racial disparities as well.
Ramaswamy’s campaign approach showcases his ability to think of unique solutions to problems. With his frequent media appearances and charismatic speaking style, Ramaswamy has rocketed to third place, according to FiveThirtyEight’s aggregate polling. Ramaswamy holds 9.9% to former President Donald Trump’s 49.9% and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ 14.6%. In some polls, Ramaswamy even leads DeSantis. All of the remaining candidates are at 5% or less. While the SAT may not be a primary issue for Ramaswamy’s base, it certainly resonates with his approach to campaigning.
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