How important are ECs?

<p>Hello, this is my first time posting up on CC. I have been in the United States for almost five years now and i just finished my Jr. year. I'm just curious about the importance of ECs. I feel like I haven't done much since i came to the United States because I think i've become "too shy." It is not to say that i haven't done anything but how much would it matter for "great colleges?" Would my immigration experience somehow mitigate the lacking-EC situation? Lastly, if not ECs, what are other important factors (besides GPA and SATs) for "great colleges." BTW, by the great colleges, i mean the most competitive colleges like Ivy league schools, straight medical program schools, and etc.</p>

<p>if, in applicants to top ivies, all of the grades and SAT scores are very similar... The thing that separates everyone is the Extracurriculars</p>

<p>well then what are some "good" extracurricular activities? + I know someone very close who got in with almost no ECs. so are there exceptions to the EC rules?</p>