@“aunt bea” No offense, but you’re wrong on a lot of things. My family did not buy their opportunities; they earned them. Income plays no role here at all. I’m not sure why you’re adamant on bringing that up.
Secondly, you’re wrong about research. I have many friends that pursue research at local universities - - some of whom have done so since sophomore year.
I do appreciate your advice on my EC’s but I hope you realize that there’s no way I can possibly fit all of them into my common app, as it only allows for 10. I plan on incorporating only the ones that I find to best show the type of person I am.