No. I personally know some of the families who were involved (not close friends, just acquaintances in the beach town I live in, so we’d be at the same parties).

The reason this guy developed a side door was that for even very wealthy people, donating does not (in today’s times) guarantee a spot. People have donated millions, only to see the university pull an ethical move and deny their kid a spot.

Thats why this guy’s side door through sports spots was so enticing and very effective. The rich kids who bought buildings were too high profile and direct to be all let in, every time.

But the sport spots were guaranteed.

The FBI even mentions this misconception in their PDF’s for the case, these are public and posted online at the Justice Department.

You’ll have fun reading the investigation!

The big donors pay for all the fancy facilities and scholarships at top schools. Win win for everyone.