On SAT cheating, it is not limited to Asian countries. There was a big crackdown on Long Island last year.

Back to Howler's comment that her friends are envious of her child, doesn't the current system, allowing for extracurriculars to be taken into account, let all types of kids shine. Maybe they wouldn't be so envious if their kid was a ping pong champ and got into Harvard as a result.

So Howler, it may be a good thing. They would be happy with their kids.