This thread s interesting in that the convo is mostly rational. But notice that the underlying theme is still stats.
At a tippy top or top, it’s not that “SAT scores comprise only a small portion of the admission decision.” I’d say they compise only a smaller part of the admissions review differentiation. So many kids apply with top this-or-that and that’s where the rest of the app comes in. Your whole self presentation.
Now, most think that means titles and awards. They fail to distinguish between what I’ll call (just to be simple) busy work, more vol hours than someone else, some title, the use of “founder” or starting a non-profit, etc, etc. These may be the things we love our kids for, but it’s not what adcoms want to love for their college community.
Then there’s the big essay. Everyone gets that it’s important. Many fewer understand what it’s meant to convey.
High school goes by fast. Your choices matter. They show your thinking. Your thinking shows your awareness, which, in turn, shows how you reach for the right info/understanding. Or not.
And that comes through on your app. Or not. No matter whether you have a 4.0uw and top scores. It’s the pitfall in just thinking stats are the “it.” They ARE very important in one’s high school standing. As are “leadership” roles. But top colleges want to see more than how you “fit” in your own high school’s scheme, the opportunities the school creates for you.
And your app/supp, incl LoRs, are the vehicle. That’s it. Unlike teachers and admins, the college doesn’t know you.
So, it pays to pay attention to every aspect of the app process.
Likewise, “interest” is not just visiting or being on an email list. It’s more to do with your match and how you understand it. Match to what they promote and want, not just what you want. If you can’t answer a Why Us, it you write your supp in ways that seem offhand or incomplete thinking, etc, they have trouble seeing your true “interest.” If you are truly vested in this college, you know it better, right?
Yes, it’s complicated. But a goal worth having is a goal worth pursuing well. Don’t pretend that all this is a “crapshoot.” That says it’s beyond your control. And that’s not the thinking a top college wants to see. The only place it’s truly beyong your control is at the end, in committee, when institutional goals predominate- the various balances a college needs: geo and gender diversity, filling majors the right way, etc.