Even with the introduction of vaccinations, the COVID-19 outbreak continues to have far-reaching health and economic consequences for the American public, including students, according to Pew Research Center. Minorities’ experiences, however, differentiate from the rest of the population when it comes to the pandemic.

While opponents of affirmative action say it decreases equity because of higher standards put on some racial groups, it is imperative that colleges consider race in their admissions to ensure diversity. Race should, however, play a reduced role in acceptance, and instead be a way to understand an applicant in a holistic context.