Nuked 
Hello, tech enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into the inspiring story of a remarkable young innovator.
Zach Yadegari, a high school student and the co-founder of the widely popular Cal AI app, faced an unexpected setback.
Despite achieving a stellar 4.0 GPA and an impressive ACT score of 34, Zach was rejected by 15 of the 18 prestigious universities to which he applied. His experience has sparked a whirlwind of reactions online.
According to Zach, he believes his essay might have contributed to the rejections. He candidly admitted that his application reflected his journey and decisions as a burgeoning entrepreneur.
Zach’s entrepreneurial spirit shone through early on; he sold a web gaming company for $100,000 before creating Cal AI, an app that helps users track calorie intake, which boasts over a million downloads and has the potential for significant revenue.
Initially, he viewed college as an unnecessary detour, but after spending time at a hacker house, he realized he wanted more from his education. He expressed his desire for college as a platform for personal growth.
In his nuanced essay, he contemplated the dichotomy of being labeled a classic dropout who’s focused solely on personal success versus someone who thrives within a community of learners.
Despite his remarkable achievements, the responses to his tweets about rejections were varied, with criticism targeting both his essay and the admissions processes themselves.
Many observers noted that colleges may prefer candidates who demonstrate a genuine thirst for education rather than those who have an overly confident demeanor.
Even prominent figures, like Y Combinator’s Garry Tan, shared their own stories of rejection, echoing the challenges of college admissions.
Ultimately, Zach is now focusing on his future steps, acknowledging that his business success, while thrilling, isn’t the only yardstick for a fulfilling life. His experience has taught him that it’s essential to value relationships and community in the journey of life.
