The Secret of a Top Scorer

My name is Ashley Easterlin. As a recognized top student, I took the SAT twice.

The first time, I got accepted into Harvard University.

The second time, I got accepted into Yale University.

Though I’ve consistently scored above 1500 on the SAT in every exam, both acceptance offers were revoked without exception as soon as the admissions offices saw my name.

I thought it was because of background checks that both schools revoked the admissions.

But my parents, Gideon Easterlin and Lydia Easterlin, are honest farm workers who live quietly and responsibly.

Until my third SAT attempt, I still scored over 1500.

I applied to Stanford University, thinking this time it was a sure thing.

But the interviewer, who was initially excited to conduct my final interview, froze upon seeing my name and immediately decided that Stanford University couldn’t accept me.

I just couldn’t figure it out—what’s wrong with my name? Why, despite my excellent grades, do all universities refuse to admit me as soon as they see my name?