Here’s what I think, for what it’s worth: there are 2,000 students nationwide applying for the same accelerated programs. 20% will not get in; another 15% will not cut it. The holistic application is the real deal. If you fit this, you have a chance: 200+ hours of experience is huge. 500 would be better. Don’t apply if you don’t have and demonstrate a passion. 29ACT minimum, but realistically a 31 or 32 unless you are just so passionate you can sell it. 3.8 minimum and it better be honors. Can you hang? Are you a low stress person? can you accept rejection? Or are you here because your parents want you here? If that’s the reason, now is the time to take a stand. The admissions group sees right through it, but they are wise enough to know 15-20 can’t hang. They will admit a few marginal “I want my kid here” kids, but the goodbye rate is high. Here is the kid that succeeds, becuase I’ve lived it: "Ever since age `10, I wanted to be a doctor. No, couldn’t tell you anything about the money. Yes, all AP classes, but I couldn’t take AP chem senior year because I was playing a varsity sport. Yes, I have spent time thinking about the lifestyle. What would you like to know? I took the ACT 6 times and the best I could get was a 31, but I have a 4.0. Yes, I would love to be in a diverse community. I want to experience real America.
There you have it. Don’t fake it. If you fit the bill, go for it.