I thought I’d give my datapoint on honors college admissions.
stats-
Not a NMF or semifinalist
Race: white
GPA: weighted- 4.25
UW:3.9
Act- 2 tests submitted
Best composite:33
Mth:36
English:34
Reading:32
Science:33
From Cincinnati with both parents alumni
Major I put down: engineering
School: Large public school 400 in the class. I’m top ~15%. Our school is well respected and rediculous. 20 nmf and a buttload go to ivy schools.
ECs: a lot of different athletics. I haven’t accomplished anything out of the ordinary though.
My essay was probably the best essay I have written in high school.
I’m pretty happy about it. Good luck!