<p>I think the stereotype is computers/tennis team/violin/piano.</p>
<p>My guess is that Berkeley is the school to which voice of reason is referring. Unfortunately, colleges are still allowed to discriminate based on race, via AA being called diversity. There is a very long thread on this topic. This can help or hurt you depending on the school. Colleges that have a low percentage of one group, will look favorably on an applicant from that group, and vice versa.
Look outside of the Ivy league box and you will find many schools that would be a great experience. Let your unique personality and experiences shine in your essay.</p>