In "The Devil in the White City," Erik Larson recounts the experience of Burnham, who faced significant challenges while attempting to pass examinations at prestigious institutions like Harvard and Yale. Despite being better prepared than his peers, Burnham endured a disheartening outcome, as both companions passed while he failed to write anything during the tests.

This experience left a lasting impact on Burnham, highlighting the unpredictable nature of success in competitive environments. His struggle at these renowned schools serves as a reminder that preparation does not always guarantee results, and that perseverance is often essential in the face of setbacks.