1. I haven't seen his essay, and I agree that effort does not necessarily equate to high quality. Although the appendix suggests the content might be solid, the admissions committee has its own rubric. Does the essay meet those standards? That is what ultimately determines the score.
2. Even setting the essay aside and looking solely at his attitude, if I were on the admissions committee, I would also vote to reject him. He appears entirely too non-compliant. He may possess a good command of knowledge, but his personality is clearly... (read more)
I agree with you in part.
1. I haven't seen his essay, and I agree that effort does not necessarily equate to high quality. Although the appendix suggests the content might be solid, the admissions committee has its own rubric. Does the essay meet those standards? That is what ultimately determines the score.
2. Even setting the essay aside and looking solely at his attitude, if I were on the admissions committee, I would also vote to reject him. He appears entirely too non-compliant. He may possess a good command of knowledge, but his personality is clearly... (read more)