Never Have I Ever… Applied to Princeton This Way
Netflix’s Never Have I Ever gave us drama, love triangles, and one ambitious college-bound teen: Devi Vishwakumar. From the first season to the last, Princeton becomes her holy grail.
But as entertaining as Devi’s journey is, her “application process” is another TV version of reality that could use some fact-checking.
Let’s break down where the show got it right… and where it took a little too much creative liberty.
The TV Version:
Devi’s application is painted as an all-or-nothing quest. She’s obsessed with Princeton, convinced that getting in will validate her struggles, her smarts, and her family’s sacrifices. On the show, her grades and competitive streak seem to speak for themselves. By the end, Devi does end up at Princeton — because of course she does.
The Reality Check:
1. It’s Never Just About the “Dream School”
Devi treats Princeton like her only option, which is relatable… but risky. In reality, successful students build a balanced college list — safeties, matches, and reaches. Even top applicants don’t bank on one school, especially one as selective as Princeton (with a ~4% acceptance rate).
2. Perfect Grades Alone Don’t Cut It
Yes, Devi is smart and competitive. But Ivy League admissions require more than GPA and test scores. It’s about impact and authenticity. How did you change your school, your community, or even your family dynamic? Devi had plenty of chaotic moments that could’ve made for compelling essays — but simply being the “smartest” isn’t enough.
3. The Essay Isn’t Just a Vent Session
Devi’s personal struggles (grief, identity, relationships) could’ve been powerful essay material. But admissions essays need reflection and growth, not just recounting drama. The best essays don’t say, “Here’s everything bad that happened.” They say, “Here’s how I grew, here’s what I value, here’s what I’ll bring to campus.”
4. Obsessing Over Prestige Misses the Point
Devi wants Princeton because it’s Princeton. But admissions officers can spot that kind of shallow “dream school” reasoning. What they actually want to see: Why Princeton? What programs, values, or opportunities make it uniquely suited to you?
5. The Application Isn’t the End of the Story
In the show, getting into Princeton feels like the finish line. In reality, it’s just the beginning. Colleges want to admit students who will thrive — not just ones who can win the admissions race. It’s about how you’ll contribute once you get there.
What Students Can Learn
Devi’s Princeton obsession makes for great TV, but real applications don’t work that way. It’s not about chasing prestige, or pinning your self-worth on one school. It’s about finding your fit, telling your story, and showing the growth you’ll bring with you to campus.
At Momentum College Prep, we help students cut through the noise, avoid the “Devi trap” of over-focusing on one name, and build applications that highlight their best selves. Because your story matters more than the logo on your hoodie.
