There was a Yale even before Larry [Kramer] and I got…
![“There was a Yale even before Larry [Kramer] and I got there, and there were three designations of students: "white shoe," "brown shoe," and "black shoe." "White shoe" people were kind of the ur-preppies from high-class backgrounds. "Brown shoe" people were kind of the high school student-council…” quote by Kevin Sessums](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/cb5/kevin-sessums-9486_backgrounds_there-was-a-yale-even-before-larry-krame_1415214.jpg)
“There was a Yale even before Larry [Kramer] and I got there, and there were three designations of students: "white shoe," "brown shoe," and "black shoe." "White shoe" people were kind of the ur-preppies from high-class backgrounds. "Brown shoe" people were kind of the high school student-council presidents who were snatched up and brushed up a little bit to be sent out into the world. "Black shoe" people were beyond the pale. They were chemistry majors and things like that.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Describes Yale's informal student class hierarchy based on background and discipline.
In simple terms: Yale had three student groups: elite, polished, and non‑traditional.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and challenge social labeling.
Themes
social hierarchy
education
class
identity
stereotypes
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
observational
analytical
When to use this quote
- college admissions
- networking
- career planning
- diversity initiatives
Key Concepts
social stratification
group identity
academic culture
Questions to Reflect On
- How do such labels affect student self‑esteem?
- Can institutions reduce these divisions?
A Different Perspective
Labels can oversimplify individuals and limit opportunities.