<p>I agree that race plays a role, but it is not as significant as you may think. Personality and character is important--MIT rates it equal to GPA, scores, etc. Also, there are many fewer URM valedictorians so that argument cannot be substantiated.</p>
<p>Simply put, stats after a certain point don't add much. It boils down to the individual and how they come off in their essays. Also, a good essay can be bad because structure, grammar, etc don't mean a damn thing if they don't say anything about the person.</p>
<p>It is hard to come up with a definite answer, but I feel that the average applicant with amazing stats lacks substance. He/she is merely numbers, but those that are imperfect have developed character by, generally, overcoming them and maturing, etc.</p>