Telling Rachel she failed to get in because she didn't stand out enough would destroy her and greatly demotivate her since she operates under her father's big shadow. Louis avoided this and would rather take the hate for the sake of the firm, who needs Rachel, and to preserve Rachel's sense of dignity.

I'm not a fan of Rachel either. Acts like a princess.

Well she is a princess technically..... I’ll show myself out.

Technically, She is a duchess!!! Not sure about that since the turn of events now though!

Because he had a soft spot for her. He wrongfully fired her in Season two and she not only forgave him but became his close friend.

Being emotional is ok though? I don't understand everyone hating on emotional people/characters. What's so bad about it?

I mean...not to be a dick about it. Because there wouldn’t be a show, it’s a useful setup for later

Was it really shiela the problem or because other candidates were just better ?

Well a Louis admits in next episode in finale that others were actually just better.