Because they're talking about how these two individuals, who apparently have done very well in school, are having trouble. And they'll talk about every possible cause and reason EXCEPT obesity! It's not even mentioned. I guarantee if these girls were fit and healthy, and graduated top in their class with good SATs (as they did!) doors would open for them. The NY Times is trying to show how there are "two worlds" in the shadow of Duke University. Like they want to vindicate the false rape claims they trumped up 10 years ago.