@GnocchiB Yes, it’s a mindset, a way we encourage them. And then how they grow, acquire experiences, morph, think. You don’t have to be a tippy top parent to do this. In the end, it’s about the kids who apply, how they self present, their thinking, the records they built.
Btw, many lower SES and first gen kids, the sorts who can thrive at a TT, are also getting solid mentoring, in various ways. They know how to stretch, self advocate, find opportunities, make a mark in their communities, and more. They can pull together a great app, including answering any Why Us.
@hebegebe, I wish CC could get off the notion it’s all about money. I have never heard a top tier adcom say, let’s take him, his parents will give us a nice donation. Or, this kid is/will be rich, someday, let’s admit him. Nor any mention of full pay. (Not for need blind.) The case of uber donors is a little different: there has been an obvious record of giving, already in place, very big bucks. But even then, there’s a vetting.
From the development perspective, it’s “overall satisfaction with their own college experience” that is a large factor in alum contributions. Sure, that’s both the campus years and after. And I have no doubt that seeing one’s kid get admitted is sweet.