James Holmes rejected by other schools

DENVER -- Professors at an Alabama university described James Holmes as an excellent candidate for their neuroscience program in February 2011, but rejected him anyway after his behavior raised concerns.

Yesterday, the University of Alabama at Birmingham released the application of the man accused of the Colorado movie theater shooting rampage, including interview forms from his visit to the school.

Professors described him as a top-notch student and shy. One doubted whether he wanted Holmes in his lab, noting that "he may be extremely smart, but difficult to engage." Wrote another: "His personality may not be as engaging as some applicants, but he is going to be a leader."

The application was obtained from the school.

Holmes enrolled later as a first-year PhD student in a neuroscience program at the University of Colorado, Denver. He withdrew about six weeks before the July 20 attack in Aurora, a Denver suburb.

Prosecutors say Holmes, 24, opened fire during a midnight showing of the Batman movie, "The Dark Knight Rises," killing 12 people and injuring 58 others.

The University of Iowa also rejected his application. Neuroscience program director Daniel Tranel wrote a strongly worded email urging the admissions committee not to accept him. "James Holmes: Do NOT offer admission under any circumstances," wrote Tranel. -- AP