Empowering Futures: How Two Colorado Students Are Revolutionizing State University Admissions

Seniors Kiran Herz and Jaiden Hwang from Cherry Creek High School are deep in the stress of college applications. Hwang spent his summer writing about 30 essays. Seeing the tension among his classmates, Herz wanted a way to ease the process.

His research uncovered a 1997 Texas law that grants automatic admission to in-state students who finish in the top 10% of their high school class. Now, the duo is pushing to bring a similar law to Colorado in November 2026.

“It’s tough to get into many universities,” Hwang said. “There’s so much stress involved.”

Their proposal aims to stimulate a broader conversation on how to help more students attend college. Advocates say simpler admission processes can ease anxiety and help students from all backgrounds explore higher education.

The proposed measure would guarantee admission to state-funded universities for students with a GPA in the top 10% of their class, provided they apply within two years of graduating. However, only 75% of a school’s freshman spots would be available for these students.

To get this measure on the ballot, they need over 124,000 signatures by December. They hope to simplify college admissions, as some peers have chosen not to apply due to stress.

“The admissions process is more complicated than it should be,” said Melanie Heath from the Lumina Foundation, which supports easier admissions policies. “Many states are adopting simplified admissions approaches.”

Currently, about a dozen states offer guaranteed admissions policies. These straightforward rules aim to make college more accessible. Meanwhile, a dozen other states are implementing direct admissions, where students are informed of their acceptance without the need to apply, targeting those who may feel college isn’t for them.

Colorado varies in its approach. Some universities, like Metro State University of Denver, provide guaranteed admission for students from certain districts. In contrast, others, like CU Denver, have tailored programs for specific high schools.

In 2022, David Tandberg, president of Adams State University, initiated a direct admissions system for students in the San Luis Valley, an area with low education attainment rates. His experience in Idaho’s direct admissions program highlighted the positive impact such policies can have.

Direct admissions don’t require hefty investments. For example, Idaho spends around $30,000 annually to notify students, resulting in enrollment boosts of 4% to 8%. Adams State officials simply needed to draft letters and coordinate with local schools to create their program.

Tandberg has received heartfelt gratitude from families, noting the profound difference direct admission can make for students who might otherwise feel excluded from higher education.

In this evolving landscape, students like Herz and Hwang are sparking necessary conversations about college admissions, aiming to make the path to higher education clearer and less daunting for everyone.

For more insights, check out the Lumina Foundation’s ongoing work in promoting accessible education opportunities (Lumina Foundation).

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